Plant type

Evergreen shrub or small tree

Height & spread

12m x 12m (much smaller in pots)

Wildlife benefit

Bee nectar plant

  • Bay trees have many things going for them. Clip them into stylish cones or lollipops to frame a doorway.
  • Use the aromatic leaves in stews and casseroles.
  • They are particularly attractive in courtyard gardens and at the front of town houses.
  • Pinch out the tips of shoots of young plants in spring and clip older plants to keep in shape in summer.
  • Clusters of small yellowish flowers are borne in spring which attract bees if in a sunny position.