The Bay Laurel ( Laurus nobilis , Lauraceae ), also known as True Laurel , Sweet Bay , Laurel Tree , Grecian Laurel , Laurel , or Bay Tree , is an aromatic evergreen tree or large shrub reaching 10–18 metres (33–59 ft) tall, native to the Mediterranean region

 Edible Uses: Leaves - fresh or dried. A spicy, aromatic flavouring, bay leaves are commonly used as  flavouring for soups, stews etc and form an essential ingredient of the herb mix 'Bouquet Garni'. The leavescan be used fresh or are harvested in the summer and dried. The flavour of freshly dried, crushed or shreddedleaves is stronger than fresh leaves, but the leaves should not be stored for longer than a year since theywill then lose their flavour. The dried fruit is used as a flavouring. The dried leaves are brewed into a herbaltea. An essential oil obtained from the leaves is used as a food flavouring. Yields can vary from 1 - 3% oil.