Lauraceae Laurus nobilis L.
Source: Magness et al. 1971
The sweet bay or laurel is a small evergreen tree, native to the Mediterranean region, with thick, simple, dull-green, lanceolate leaves. It is widely grown as an ornamental, both in the open and in tubs. It is the laurel of history and poetry, long a symbol of victory. The leaves have a pleasant odor and a bitter, aromatic taste. They are used both fresh and dried in cookery to impart flavor. No data are available as to U.S. production, but it is limited.
The bay-rum or bayberry of commerce is from the leaves of Pimenta racemosa Mill.