Sweet bay is a classic evergreen 6–8 m with aromatic leaves essential in Mediterranean cuisine. Dense, glossy foliage clips into topiary balls, cones or standards, tolerating hard pruning. Small yellow spring flowers on female plants set black berries if a male is nearby. Hardy to −8 °C; grow in full sun, well‑drained soil, or containers moved indoors during severe frost. Feed annually and watch for scale insects.