Laurus nobilis - 'Bay Leaf Tree' - Bay Laurel or Sweet Bay - Live Plant one Laurus nobilis - 'Bay Leaf Tree'. This culinary favorite is used extensively in French, Italian, Spanish and Creole cooking. It's easily grown in ground or container. Bay Laurel can be shaped into hedge for topiary form or grown as a small tree. Native to the southern Mediterranean region, it's commercially grown for its aromatic leaves. Cultivation Bay laurel will do best in partial shade. Transplant to a rich, well-draining soil. Plant thrives with frequent watering, but should be allowed to dry between. In cooler regions, container growth is recommended. For cooking, leaves should be picked early in the day and dried under weight to prevent curling. Zones 8-10. These well-rooted, 5"+ plants come in 2.5" x 2.5" x 3.5" deep pots.