HomeBay Laurel › Grow in North Carolina

Can You Grow Bay Laurel in North Carolina?

US · USDA Zone 7b · zones 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a

Grow indoors

Grow in a large pot and bring indoors before temperatures drop below 20°F (-7°C).

Plant zones

8a–10b

North Carolina last frost

late February

North Carolina first frost

early December

Days to harvest

180–365 days

When to plant Bay Laurels in North Carolina

Direct sow

Feb 28

Harvest

Aug 27 – Feb 28

Dates are approximate, based on North Carolina's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Bay Laurel

Bay laurel is the source of the bay leaf in every spice rack — a slow-growing Mediterranean shrub that can be kept compact in a container. The fresh leaves are far more aromatic than dried store-bought.

Buy a young plant rather than starting from seed (germination is extremely slow and unreliable). Grow in a large container so it can be moved indoors in cold climates. Very slow growing — harvest lightly the first year. Allow leaves to dry on the branch for best flavour.

Full bay laurel growing guide →

Gardening in North Carolina

North Carolina spans the mountains (Zone 5b-6a), Piedmont (Zone 7a-7b), and coastal plain (Zone 8a). Long warm seasons support tobacco, sweet potatoes, and a wide range of vegetables.

See what grows well in North Carolina →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Bay Laurel in North Carolina?

Grow in a large pot and bring indoors before temperatures drop below 20°F (-7°C).

What zone is North Carolina?

North Carolina spans USDA Zone 7b (5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a).

When do you plant Bay Laurels in North Carolina?

Plant Bay Laurels Feb 28, harvest Aug 27 – Feb 28.