Taurus nobilis Lauraceae

CULTIVATION A semi-hardy evergreen tree with aromatic, glossy, mid-green, lance-shaped leaves and small, creamy-white flowers from midsummer. It reaches a height of up to 8m (26ft) and prefers a sheltered position, rich, well-drained soil and sun or light shade. Propagate it by taking 10cm (4m) stem cuttings in late summer. Plant them in sandy soil in a frost-free corner of the garden or under glass. Harvest the leaves at any time when using them straight away, but, for drying, pick them from midsummer. Bay is an elegant garden, border, hedging, specimen, container and conservatory herb. Recommended varieties Common green bay, L.n.; golden bay, L.n. ‘Aurea’; willow leaf bay, L.n. angustifolia.