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Bay Laurel Vs Cherry Laurel are two of the most commonly used types of laurel plants. Although they share the same common name, they are different in many ways. Bay laurel is an aromatic evergreen tree that is native to the Mediterranean region, while cherry laurel is a flowering shrub that is native to Asia and Europe.
One of the main differences between the two is their usage. Bay laurel is primarily used for culinary purposes, while cherry laurel is mostly used for hedging and ornamental purposes. Bay laurel leaves are commonly used as a spice in cooking, imparting a slightly bitter and aromatic flavor to dishes. On the other hand, cherry laurel is a popular choice for hedging due to its dense foliage, which provides privacy and security.
Another difference between Bay Laurel Vs Cherry Laurel is their appearance. Bay laurel is a tall tree that can grow up to 20 meters in height, while cherry laurel is a shrub that usually grows up to 5 meters tall. Bay laurel has dark green, glossy leaves that are narrow and pointed, while cherry laurel has broader, oval-shaped leaves that are darker in color. Overall, while they share some similarities, Bay Laurel Vs Cherry Laurel are two distinct plants that serve different purposes.
The Types of Laurel Hedging
As an evergreen shrub, Laurel is a popular choice for hedging. There are three main types of Laurel hedging: Bay Laurel, Cherry Laurel, and English Laurel. Each type has its unique features and benefits.
Bay Laurel (Laurus Nobilis)
Bay Laurel, also known as Sweet Bay or True Laurel, is an aromatic evergreen shrub that is native to the Mediterranean. It is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 10m in height, but it is usually kept smaller when used for hedging. Bay Laurel is an excellent choice for formal hedging due to its dense, glossy leaves and fragrant foliage. It is also a popular culinary herb and can be used to add flavor to soups, stews, and sauces.
Cherry Laurel (Prunus Laurocerasus)
Cherry Laurel, also known as Common Laurel, is a fast-growing evergreen shrub that is native to the Caucasus region. It is a popular choice for hedging due to its dense, dark green foliage and its ability to grow in a wide range of soil types. Cherry Laurel is also highly tolerant of pollution and is suitable for urban areas. There are several varieties of Cherry Laurel, including Prunus laurocerasus ‘Rotundifolia’ and Prunus laurocerasus ‘Caucasica’.
English Laurel (Prunus Lusitanica)
English Laurel, also known as Portugal Laurel, is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that is native to southern Europe. It has glossy, dark green leaves and produces small white flowers in the summer. English Laurel is an excellent choice for hedging due to its dense foliage and its ability to grow in both sun and shade. It is also highly tolerant of drought and is suitable for dry areas.
Each type of Laurel hedging has its unique features and benefits. Bay Laurel is an excellent choice for formal hedging and culinary use, Cherry Laurel is a fast-growing and pollution-tolerant option, and English Laurel is a slow-growing and drought-tolerant choice. When choosing a Laurel hedge, it is essential to consider the specific needs of your garden and the environment.
Differences in Appearance and Characteristics
As someone who has worked with both Bay Laurel Vs Cherry Laurel, I can confidently say that there are several key differences in their appearance and characteristics. Here are some of the most notable ones:
Leaf Shape and Size
One of the most obvious differences between Bay Laurel Vs Cherry Laurel is the shape and size of their leaves. Bay Laurel has dark green, glossy leaves that are oval-shaped and pointed at the tip. They are typically 3-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. In contrast, Cherry Laurel has larger, wider leaves that are a lighter shade of green. They are typically 4-8 inches long and 2-4 inches wide, and have a more oblong shape.
Growth Habit and Size
Another key difference between these two types of laurel is their growth habit and size. Bay Laurel is a slower-growing shrub that can reach a height of up to 30 feet. It has a dense foliage that makes it ideal for use as a hedge or screen. Cherry Laurel, on the other hand, is a faster-growing shrub that can reach a height of up to 40 feet. It has a more open growth habit and is often used as a specimen plant.
Aroma
One of the most distinctive characteristics of Bay Laurel is its pungent, intense aroma. The leaves are often used in cooking to add flavor to soups, stews, and sauces. In contrast, Cherry Laurel has a milder aroma that is not as commonly used in cooking. It is worth noting that Cherry Laurel is toxic if ingested, so it should not be used for culinary purposes.
Overall, while both Bay Laurel Vs Cherry Laurel share some similarities, there are key differences in their appearance and characteristics that make them better suited for different purposes. Whether you are looking for a dense, glossy hedge or a fast-growing specimen plant, it is important to choose the right type of laurel for your needs.
Choosing the Right Laurel for Your Needs
When choosing between Bay Laurel Vs Cherry Laurel, it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences. Here are a few factors to keep in mind:
Topiary and Container Options
If you’re interested in topiary or container gardening, Bay Laurel may be the better choice. Its slow growth rate and compact size make it easier to maintain in these forms. Cherry Laurel, on the other hand, can grow quite large and may not be as well-suited for these purposes.
Tolerance to Different Climates
Both Bay Laurel Vs Cherry Laurel are hardy plants that can tolerate a range of climates and conditions. However, Bay Laurel is native to the Mediterranean region and may be better suited to warmer, sunnier climates. Cherry Laurel, on the other hand, can tolerate cooler temperatures and partial shade.
Edibility of Fruits/Leaves
Bay Laurel is often used in cooking for its aromatic leaves, which are commonly known as bay leaves. These leaves are safe for human consumption, but the plant itself contains toxic compounds that can be harmful to pets and livestock. Cherry Laurel, on the other hand, produces small, inedible fruits that are not commonly used in cooking.
When it comes to choosing between Bay Laurel and Cherry Laurel, there are a few other factors to consider as well. Both plants are evergreen shrubs that can be used as hedges or screens, and both are fast-growing and hardy. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, but can tolerate a range of soil types and conditions.
One potential problem with Cherry Laurel is its root system, which can be aggressive and cause damage to lawns and other plants. Bay Laurel, on the other hand, is generally easier to maintain and less prone to problems.
There are also several varieties of each plant to choose from, including different sizes, shapes, and colors. Bay Laurel is often grown as an ornamental plant, while Cherry Laurel is more commonly used for hedging and screening.
Ultimately, the choice between Bay Laurel Vs Cherry Laurel will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Both plants have their pros and cons, so it’s important to do your research and choose the one that best suits your situation.
Before You Go – Bay Laurel Vs Cherry Laurel
Both Bay Laurel Vs Cherry Laurel are popular and widely used in different ways. Bay Laurel is a Mediterranean tree that has been used for centuries in various arts, including cooking, medicine, and wreath-making. Its leaves have a strong flavor and are often used in soups, stews, and sauces. On the other hand, Cherry Laurel, also known as Rotundifolia, Caucasica, Otto Luyken, or Novita, is mostly used as a hedge or ornamental plant due to its beautiful golden or dark green leaves.
Although both plants belong to the same family, they have distinct differences. Bay Laurel has a stronger flavor and is used in smaller quantities, whereas Cherry Laurel leaves are not edible and can be poisonous if ingested. Bay Laurel has small, black seeds, while Cherry Laurel has larger, red seeds. Additionally, Bay Laurel leaves have been associated with Greek mythology, where they were used to create the laureate corona, a wreath worn by kings, emperors, and poets. The phrase “rest on your laurels” also comes from this tradition.
Finally, it is worth mentioning that other plants, such as Umbellularia Californica, also known as California Bay Leaves or Pepperwood, and Cinnamomum Tamala, also known as Indian Bay Leaves or Tej Patta, have similar properties to Bay Laurel and are often used as substitutes. Oregon Myrtle, another plant with similar properties, is also known as California Laurel. In Greek mythology, the Grecian Laurel was dedicated to Apollo and Daphne, and was used to make wreaths for the winners of the Olympics. Alloro in Italian and Feuille de Laurier in French also refer to Bay Laurel.
Laurel Love: Bay Laurel vs Cherry Laurel and TheHerbProf
Hey, herb enthusiasts! Let’s delve into the world of laurels, specifically the Bay Laurel and the Cherry Laurel, and explore how they connect to our herbal home, theherbprof.com.
First off, these two laurels are a wonder! They’re packed with unique characteristics that not only make them interesting but also beneficial. Now, isn’t that something we all love at theherbprof.com? You can check our homepage here.
But wait, there’s more! By comparing Bay Laurel and Cherry Laurel, we’re showing our commitment to exploring and promoting herbal knowledge. It’s like saying, “Hey, want to learn more about herbs? Come join us at theherbprof.com!”
So, in a nutshell, Bay Laurel, Cherry Laurel, and theherbprof.com are like three peas in a pod. They all celebrate the magic of herbs and together, they can help us lead healthier, happier lives. Now, that’s what I call a win-win!
References – Bay Laurel Vs Cherry Laurel
Little Herb Encyclopedia, by Jack Ritchason; N.D., Woodland Publishing Incorporated, 1995
The Ultimate Healing System, Course Manual, Copyright 1985, Don Lepore
Planetary Herbology, Michael Tierra, C.A., N.D., Lotus Press, 1988
Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, by James A. Duke, Pub. CRP Second Edition 2007
The Complete Medicinal Herbal, by Penelope Ody, Published by Dorling Kindersley
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Frequently Asked Questions – Bay Laurel Vs Cherry Laurel
What are the distinguishing characteristics between Bay Laurel Vs Cherry Laurel?
Bay Laurel and Cherry Laurel are two different species of the Laurel family, each with its own unique characteristics. Bay Laurel is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree that can grow up to 40 feet tall, with dark green, glossy leaves that have a spicy fragrance. Cherry Laurel, on the other hand, is a larger evergreen shrub or small tree that can grow up to 30 feet tall, with glossy, dark green leaves that have a bitter almond scent when crushed. While both species have similar-looking leaves, the scent and taste of the leaves are different, making them easy to distinguish.
Can you identify the hardiest variety of laurel for cold climates?
The hardiest variety of laurel for cold climates is the Schip Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus ‘Schipkaensis’). This variety is known for its ability to withstand extreme cold temperatures and harsh winter conditions. It is a dense, compact evergreen shrub that can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide. Schip Laurel is also resistant to pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners in colder regions.
What are the common issues faced when growing a Laurel hedge?
Laurel hedges are generally easy to grow and maintain, but there are some common issues that gardeners may face. One such issue is leaf spot, a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves. This can be prevented by ensuring proper air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. Another issue is root rot, which can occur if the soil is too wet. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering. Finally, Laurel hedges can become overgrown and require regular pruning to maintain their shape and size.
Which Laurel species is preferred for creating a privacy hedge?
Cherry Laurel is the preferred species for creating a privacy hedge due to its dense growth habit and fast growth rate. It can grow up to 3 feet per year and can be easily pruned to maintain its desired height and shape. Bay Laurel, while also a good option for hedges, is slower growing and may not provide the same level of privacy as Cherry Laurel.
Is there a toxicity concern associated with Laurel hedges?
Yes, Laurel hedges can be toxic if ingested. All parts of the plant, including the leaves and berries, contain a toxic compound called cyanogenic glycosides, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even death if consumed in large quantities. It is important to keep Laurel hedges away from children and pets and to avoid consuming any part of the plant.
What is the scientific name of Cherry Laurel?
The scientific name of Cherry Laurel is Prunus laurocerasus.
