Lauraceae

Laurel Family (Lauraceae)

Laurus nobilis
laurel (Laurus nobilis) leaf
Laurus nobilis

The laurel tree is native to Southwest Asia and is now also native to southern Europe and parts of America. Because the laurel tree is not winter hardy, it is often grown in northern Europe as an ornamental plant in the bucket. The dried leaves of the laurel tree are used as a spice. From the fruit oils are pressed.