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Bay Laurel plant growing in a garden

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Growing Bay Laurel

Bay laurel is the source of the bay leaf in every spice rack — a slow-growing Mediterranean shrub that can be kept compact in a container. The fresh leaves are far more aromatic than dried store-bought.

Quick Answer: Bay Laurel grows in Zones 8a–10b, taking 180–365 days to harvest.
🌡️ Zones 8a–10b 🌥️ Full Shade 💧 Low Water 🔧 Intermediate 🪴 Container OK (10+ gal) 🏠 Indoor Viable 🏜️ Drought Tolerant ♾️ Perennial ⚠️ Toxic to Pets

Can You Grow Bay Laurel in Your Area?

Growing Tips

Buy a young plant rather than starting from seed (germination is extremely slow and unreliable). Grow in a large container so it can be moved indoors in cold climates. Very slow growing — harvest lightly the first year. Allow leaves to dry on the branch for best flavour.

Where Does Bay Laurel Grow?

Bay Laurel is suited to Zones 8a–10b. Here are some areas where it thrives:

✅ Zone 8a ✅ Zone 8b ✅ Zone 9a ✅ Zone 9b ✅ Zone 10a ✅ Zone 10b
Won't grow outdoors in: very cold zones (below Zone 8a) or very warm zones (above Zone 10b). Bay laurel is frost-tender but makes a stunning container plant that overwinters beautifully indoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Bay Laurel grows in USDA Zones 8a–10b.
Bay Laurel needs moderate care.
Yes — use a 10+ gallon pot.
Bay Laurel is TOXIC for dogs and TOXIC for cats.