Laurus nobilis 'Baby Bay'

30cm/33cm: Approx. 0.3 – 0.7 m tall
40cm/45L: Approx. 0.4 – 0.9 m tall

Please note: These height guides are approximate, as we work with live plants and natural variation is expected. The measurements provided reflect typical stock sizing but may vary between batches.

Size
$120.00
$120.00
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A GRADE STOCK, EVERY TIME.

Learn About Your New Laurus nobilis 'Baby Bay' - Baby Bay, Dwarf Bay Tree

Laurus nobilis 'Baby Bay' is a charming dwarf Bay Tree cultivar, perfectly suited for those who want the classic aromatic leaves and elegant form of a Bay Tree but within a compact, manageable size. Growing to just 1–2 meters tall with dense, glossy foliage, it looks excellent in containers, small gardens, patios, or even kitchen herb gardens—bringing a touch of Mediterranean flair to any space.

This slow-growing, low-maintenance shrub offers year-round culinary delight with its fragrant leaves, ideal for fresh cooking. Its natural pest resistance and drought tolerance make it especially appealing for busy gardeners or beginners. Whether shaped as a topiary or left to grow naturally, the 'Baby Bay' delivers a neat, polished look that resonates with people seeking both beauty and practicality in a small package.

A versatile and elegant choice, it brings freshness and style wherever it’s placed, proving that great things truly can come in small packages.


Plant Profile
Planting & Spacing Tips
Post Planting Care
Tips for Various Soil Types

1. Botanical & Physical Characteristics

BOTANICAL NAME:
Laurus nobilis 'Baby Bay'
GENUS:
Laurus
BOTANICAL SPECIES:
Baby Bay, Dwarf Bay Tree
COMMON NAME:
Baby Bay, Dwarf Bay Tree
FAMILY:
Lauraceae
EVERGREEN / DECIDUOUS:
Evergreen (foliage year round)
FOLIAGE TYPE
  • Broad
FORM & SHAPE
  • Compact
  • Shrub

2. Growth & Environmental Conditions

GROWTH RATE
  • Slow Growth Rate
EXPECTED GROWTH PER YEAR

Approx 10 – 20 cm per year

MATURE HEIGHT

2m - 4m Approximately (often kept smaller by pruning)

MATURE WIDTH

Approximately 1 meter

SUNLIGHT EXPOSURE
  • Full Sun
  • Part Shade
FROST TOLERANCE

Frost Tolerant – Can handle light to moderate frost once established.

AUSTRALIAN NATIVE?
No

3. Practical Uses & Flowering

USES:
  • Screening or Privacy
  • Feature Tree
  • Plant in Pots (or) Suitable for Pots
  • Edible Garden
  • Underplanting
  • Shrubs
FLOWER COLOUR
Yellow
FLOWER TYPE
  • Umbel
FLOWERING PERIOD
  • Spring

Planting Tips

Plant Spacing

Feature Planting: Space 1 m apart for best form and air circulation

Hedging & Screening: Not typically used for hedging due to size

Container Use: Perfect for individual pots or grouped patio displays

Ensuring A Strong Start

How to Plant:

  • Ideal for container planting. Choose a pot with adequate drainage holes and use well-draining potting soil.
  • Plant the tree at the same depth it was in its original pot.
  • Water thoroughly after planting and place in a location where it will receive the required sunlight.

Root Ball Dimensions (Width × Depth) for Planting

Use this as a reference when digging your planting hole. We recommend digging at least 10% wider than the dimensions below to encourage strong root development.

  • 30cm Pot: 33cm (W) × 30cm (D)
  • 40cm/45L Pot: 44cm (W) × 41.5cm (D)
  • 50cm Pot: 49.5cm (W) × 35.2cm (D)
  • 70L Pot: 55cm (W) × 41.8cm (D)
  • 100L Bag: 50.6cm (W) × 52.8cm (D)
  • 100L Pot: 66cm (W) × 49.5cm (D)
  • 150L Bag: 66cm (W) × 55cm (D)
  • 200L Bag: 71.5cm (W) × 60.5cm (D)
  • 300L Bag: 88cm (W) × 63.8cm (D)
  • 400L Bag: 99cm (W) × 66cm (D)
  • 500L Bag: 122cm (W) × 66cm (D)
  • 750L Bag: 134cm (W) × 69cm (D)
  • 1000L Bag: 146.3cm (W) × 71.5cm (D)
  • 2000L Bag: 176cm (W) × 82.5cm (D)

Post Planting Care

When planting a new tree or shrub, proper watering is essential to ensure healthy establishment and long-term growth. Follow these guidelines to give your plant the best start:

  1. Immediately After Planting:
    Water generously right after planting to settle the soil around the roots and eliminate air pockets. This helps the roots make good contact with the soil.
  2. First Three Months (Establishment Phase):
    The initial three months are critical for root development. Water deeply twice daily (morning and evening) to encourage strong, deep root growth.
  3. Irrigation Systems:
    If using an irrigation system, adjust it to provide adequate water during the establishment phase. Ensure the water reaches the root zone without overwatering.
  4. Weather Considerations:
    Adjust watering based on weather conditions. Increase frequency during hot, dry periods and reduce it during cooler, wetter seasons.
  5. Ongoing Care:
    After the establishment phase (3 months), gradually reduce watering frequency but ensure the plant receives consistent moisture, especially during dry spells.

Long Term & Ongoing Care

Caring for Laurus nobilis 'Baby Bay':

  • Water consistently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
  • Fertilize with a general-purpose fertilizer in the spring and again in mid-summer.
  • Prune to shape in early spring or late summer, if desired, to maintain a compact form.

Growing Your Laurus nobilis 'Baby Bay' in Various Soil Types

How to Grow in Different Soil Types

This tree prefers well-drained soil but adapts to various conditions.

Sandy Soil: Requires added compost to retain moisture and provide nutrients.

Clay Soil: Can retain too much water—improve with organic matter and sand for better drainage.

Loamy Soil: Ideal for healthy root development and consistent growth.

Acidic or Alkaline Soil: Tolerates a wide pH range but prefers slightly acidic to neutral conditions.

Here is what customers like you frequently ask

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • When is the best time to plant 'Baby Bay'?
    Planting can be done at any time if it is kept in a container. If planting in the ground, early spring or fall is ideal.
  • How often should I water my 'Baby Bay' Tree?
    Regular watering is necessary, especially in hot, dry weather. Ensure the potting soil is well-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Is 'Baby Bay' susceptible to any pests or diseases?
    It may encounter the same pests and diseases as standard Bay Trees, such as bay sucker or scale insects, but is generally quite hardy.
  • Can 'Baby Bay' be grown indoors?
    Yes, it can be grown indoors in a sunny spot, such as a south-facing window.
  • What are the culinary uses of 'Baby Bay' Leaves?
    The leaves are used in a variety of dishes for their aromatic flavor, including soups, stews, sauces, and meat dishes.

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