Bay is the common name of Laurus nobilis species, from Lauraceae family.
Also known as: bay tree, bay laurel, sweet bay.
Bay leaves
Image credit: ndrwfgg
View larger image
Features of Bay
Height to 120-600 inches. Spread to 360 inches. Zone 8-10. Evergreen perennial
leathery, ovate, pointed, scented leaf.
clustered, light-yellow, small flower.
Growing Bay
- by cutting during summer. Take 4-inch semi-ripe cuttings.
- by layering during spring.
- by root division. Divide offshoots.
- by seed during autumn. Not recommended because of erratic germination.
- growth: Good as a pot-plant. Cultivate as a standard bay tree in container.
- protection: Protect from wind as Bay has a shallow root.
- protection: Protect from frost and cold temperature. Bring indoor if grown in a container.
- trimming: Trim to maintain shape.
Bay was a symbol of wisdom and glory to the ancient Greeks and Romans,
who crowned their best poets and athletes with wreaths made out of bay leaves.
The bay leaf is an essential ingredient of the classic bouquet garni in French cooking. Famous for its aromatic flavour, the herb is frequently used in slow-cooked dishes such as soups and stews.
Bay leaves are also used in home remedies to treat indigestion and respiratory illnesses.
Using Bay
Culinary
Dessert
Garnish desserts such as sorbets. (Use leaf)
Sauce
Add flavour to sauces and stews. (Use leaf)
Soup
Add flavour to soups. (Use leaf)
Decorative
Decorative
Make wreaths and garlands. (Use leaf)
Household
Fragrance
Use a branch of bay as air-freshener. (Use leaf, stem)
Fragrance
Add to potpourri. (Use leaf)
Medicinal
Essential oil
Blend in a massage oil and use for muscle and joint pains. (Use leaf)
Tea
A tea to improve appetite and help digestion. (Use leaf)
Traditional Remedies
Traditional remedies may or may not be supported by scientific evidences.
Cautions
- Conditions » Only Sweet Bay (Laurus nobilis) is suitable for consumption. Other laurel plants in the Laurus genus can be harmful.
- Please consult with your doctor before using bay for health related purposes.
Notes
For culinary use, dried bay leaves taste better.
){kind=link}