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Can You Grow Bay Laurel in South Carolina?

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

Grows well here

Bay laurel grows outdoors year-round in your zone — expect a handsome long-lived shrub.

Plant zones

8a–10b

South Carolina last frost

mid-February

South Carolina first frost

early December

Days to harvest

180–365 days

When to plant Bay Laurels in South Carolina

Direct sow

Feb 15

Harvest

Aug 14 – Feb 15

Dates are approximate, based on South 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 South Carolina

South Carolina has a humid subtropical climate with long hot summers and mild winters. The Upstate is Zone 7a-7b; the coast is Zone 8a-8b. Two growing seasons are standard.

See what grows well in South Carolina →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Bay Laurel in South Carolina?

Bay laurel grows outdoors year-round in your zone — expect a handsome long-lived shrub.

What zone is South Carolina?

South Carolina spans USDA Zone 8a (7a, 7b, 8a, 8b).

When do you plant Bay Laurels in South Carolina?

Plant Bay Laurels Feb 15, harvest Aug 14 – Feb 15.