Laurus nobilis

A large shrub or small tree that is evergreen. It originates from the Mediterranean Basin and can be found growing wild in Israel, usually in the northern area in the woods, in shady and humid places. Despite its natural fondness for being near freshwater sources, it will also thrive in other areas of the country. The tree is dioecious. The male tree’s flowers are yellowish. The female tree’s flowers are greenish, and it bears fruits that resemble green berries that ripen to black in fall. To grow a tree with one main trunk, it must be expertly and persistently designed as the tree constantly grows competing trunks. Once a young one is established in the ground, it has no problem resisting the extreme hot and cold conditions that exist in Israel. It only needs to be watered until it is established, and afterward it will even be resistant to drought conditions. It will also thrive in nutrient-low soil. The tree is considered to be extremely resistant to weather damage. As for pests, in humid areas, it tends to be attacked by Sternorrhyncha insects and suffers from sooty mold as a result. Therefore, this nuisance requires supervision and care to maintain the tree’s beautiful and clean appearance.

The tree’s leaves are ovular, dark green and glossy. They are very aromatic. Laurus nobilis is a spice plant used for cooking and pickling vegetables such as cucumbers and olives, and it is excellent addition to any herb garden. It naturally repels insects and helps to protect the plants nearby from their potential harm. In the classical world, in Greece and Rome, a wreath of laurel leaves would adorn the heads of the winners of the Olympics and of distinguished people. Oil extracted from the leaves and the fruit is also used in alternative medicine to treat various pains, such as rheumatism, joint pain, earaches and more, as well as to treat gastrointestinal problems. The oil products are also used widely in veterinary medicine, as well as in the cosmetics industry, mainly in the production of soaps.

There is a very impressive specimen of Laurus nobilis in the Ilanot Arboretum.