Laurus nobilis f. angustifolia
willow-leaved laurel
An evergreen shrub or small tree, to around 8m tall, with aromatic foliage useful in cooking. The leaves are willow-like in appearance being long and narrow and with wavy edges. Yellowish-green flowers appear in spring
Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metresTime to ultimate height
20–50 yearsUltimate spread
4–8 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Yellow | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | Black | ||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or East–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Lauraceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Potentially harmful
- Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
- Genus
Laurus are dioecious evergreen trees or large shrubs, with leathery aromatic leaves, and small yellow flowers followed on female plants by black berries
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Mediterranean
How to grow
Cultivation
Grows well in a container. Prefers a well-drained soil in sun or partial shade
Propagation
Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Patio and container plants
- Wildlife gardens
- Low Maintenance
- Hedging and screens
- Wall side borders
Pruning
Pests
May be susceptible to bay sucker, horse chestnut scale, soft scale and tortrix moth
Diseases
May be susceptible to powdery mildews, a leaf spot and honey fungus (rarely)
Get involved
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