bay laurel

bay laurel

bay laurel

Where “bay leaves” come from. 10–18 m (33–59 ft) tall, pale yellowgreen flowers, in pairs beside a leaf. Can easily be grown in pots. Arthritis, rheumatism, earaches, high blood pressure. Fruit is small shiny black berry, which has both essential and fatty oils. Leaves are used fresh or dried as spices to flavor food, but remove before eating because they are sharp and can cut internal organs. Powdered leaves are ok to swallow though. Fruit is edible.

Edible Plant Guide © 2012 Markus Rothkranz