Bay Laurel Laurus nobilis 'Aurea'

Names

• Family

  Lauraceae.

• Synonyms

  Golden Bay, Golden Sweet Bay, Yellow Bay, Aurea Sweet Bay.

• Common names

  Laurus nobilis 'Aurea'.

Toxicity

• To humans

  The common name for Laurus nobilis 'Aurea' is bay laurel. Bay laurel is generally considered safe for human consumption, particularly in the form of bay leaves which are commonly used as a seasoning in cooking. However, consuming large quantities of the leaves can be harmful due to the presence of essential oils and compounds such as eugenol. Ingesting whole leaves or large quantities can lead to symptoms such as gastrointestinal upset, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. The leaves are tough and can be a choking hazard if swallowed whole, and there is also a risk of causing blockages in the digestive tract. It's important to use bay leaves in moderation and remove whole leaves from dishes before consumption to avoid these risks.

• To pets

  Bay laurel, known to pets as the same, is not highly toxic to pets, but it can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities. The essential oils and eugenol in the leaves can lead to symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea in animals such as cats and dogs. Pets typically do not consume large amounts of this plant, but it's advisable to prevent them from ingesting the leaves to avoid potential discomfort or more serious digestive issues. In cases where a pet ingests a significant amount, it is wise to consult with a veterinarian.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Evergreen

• Color of leaves

  Yellow-green

• Flower color

  Yellow

• Height

  10-30 feet (3-9 meters)

• Spread

  10-30 feet (3-9 meters)

• Plant type

  Tree

• Hardiness zones

  8

• Native area

  Mediterranean

General Benefits

• Culinary uses: The leaves of the bay laurel are widely used as a seasoning in cooking, providing a distinct flavor and aroma to soups, stews, and braises.
• Aesthetic appeal: With its golden-yellow leaves, the 'Aurea' cultivar of bay laurel adds a splash of color to landscapes, gardens, and indoor settings.
• Ease of cultivation: Bay laurel is relatively easy to grow and can be cultivated in pots or as a hedge, making it versatile for different garden designs and spaces.
• Drought tolerance: Once established, Laurus nobilis 'Aurea' is tolerant of periods of dryness, making it suitable for water-wise gardens and reducing the need for frequent irrigation.
• Herb garden staple: As a classic herb, it is a must-have for any herb garden, offering both ornamental value and practical use in the kitchen.
• Evergreen foliage: The plant retains its leaves throughout the year, ensuring that the garden remains vibrant even in colder seasons.
• Pruning and shaping: The plant can be easily shaped and pruned to maintain a desired size and form, which is ideal for formal gardens or for use as topiary.
• Low maintenance: Requiring minimal care once established, bay laurel is ideal for gardeners of all levels looking for a low-maintenance plant.
• Cultural and historical significance: Bay laurel has deep historical and cultural roots, often associated with victory and honor, which can add a layer of meaning to a garden or landscape.

Medical Properties

• Antimicrobial: The leaves of Laurus nobilis 'Aurea', commonly known as Bay Laurel, contain essential oils that possess antimicrobial properties, which can help inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and fungi.
• Anti-inflammatory: The plant's extracts are traditionally used for their anti-inflammatory effects, which might help in reducing inflammation and relieving pain.
• Antioxidant: Bay Laurel contains compounds that have antioxidant properties, potentially helping to protect against oxidative stress and support overall health.
• Digestive aid: The leaves are often used in culinary practices to aid digestion and relieve minor stomach complaints.
• Respiratory health: Inhalation of the steam from the leaves is sometimes used to alleviate respiratory tract symptoms, such as during colds or sinus infections.
• Analgesic: The plant may have analgesic properties, offering mild pain relief for headaches or muscle pain.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• The golden bay laurel can be used as a natural insect repellent when its leaves are placed in pantries or cupboards to ward off pests.
• Its wood, being quite aromatic, can be used for smoking foods to impart a distinct flavor commonly associated with Mediterranean cuisine.
• The plant can be woven into wreaths and garlands for decoration during festivals or personal adornment in ancient Greco-Roman tradition.
• Dried leaves from the golden bay laurel are used in potpourris due to their pleasant fragrance and long-lasting scent.
• The essential oil extracted from the leaves is used in aromatherapy for creating calming and soothing environments.
• Golden bay laurel branches can be used as natural skewers for grilling to add a subtle bay flavor to meats and vegetables.
• The wood of the plant is sometimes used in woodworking to create specialty items like tool handles and craft objects, owing to its fine grain.
• The leaves can be used as a natural polish for wooden furniture when rubbed directly onto surfaces, releasing oils that shine and protect the wood.
• The golden bay laurel can serve as a natural dye plant, with leaves yielding a variety of green hues when used in traditional fabric dyeing processes.
• In landscaping, the plant can be trained and pruned into topiary forms for ornamental garden displays or hedges to create structured garden designs.

Feng Shui

The Bay Laurel is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Bay Laurel is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Victory and Achievement: Laurus nobilis 'Aurea', commonly known as the Bay Laurel, has been a symbol of victory since ancient times, often used in wreaths to crown successful athletes and warriors.
• Wisdom and Glory: The Bay Laurel is associated with Apollo, the Greek god of prophecy and knowledge, suggesting wisdom and intellectual achievement.
• Peace and Protection: In some traditions, the Bay Laurel represents peace, and it was believed to ward off evil and provide protection.
• Honor and Nobility: The Bay Laurel is often considered an emblem of status and nobility due to its historical use in crowns and its enduring presence in academic contexts.