For the culinary gardener — a densely branched, evergreen tree, 4-6 ft wide x 12-15 ft tall, with bright yellow new growth, eventually hardening to a deep green. Aromatic leaves – bay leaves, only yellow – can season soups and stews. Small, yellowish flowers are followed by black, fruit. Native to the Mediterranean in moist valleys, so well-drained soil, sun to part shade, and some summer moisture is best, at least until well established. Frost hardy to 10F, USDA zones 8.

GOLDEN BAY

Lauraceae