What Is a Bay Leaf Tree?
The bay leaf, one of the most widely used cooking herbs, grows on the bushy bay laurel tree. People have cultivated these warm-weather plants since ancient times, particularly the Greeks, who viewed the tree as sacred. Does this Spark an idea?
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Identification
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Bay laurel trees are evergreen shrubs that can grow up to 60 feet high. They bloom with small white flowers in the spring and bear small berries, but they're best known for their pointed, aromatic leaves.
Geography
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Bay trees are native to Turkey and grow across the Mediterranean region and anywhere with a similar climate. A variety with more pungent leaves, the California laurel, grows across California and southern Oregon.
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History
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Both ancient Greek and Roman cultures held the bay tree in high regard. They believed it to be sacred and used it to make make garlands to honor emperors, generals, poets, doctors and Olympic victors.
Function
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The tree's leaves add an herbal flavor to stews, soups, marinades and beef dishes. Besides adding flavor, the leaves also contain compounds and essential oils that can help lower blood sugar levels, soothe ulcers and provide antioxidants.
Fun Fact
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The word baccalaureate, or a bachelor's degree, refers to the berries of the bay tree, a carryover from its ancient association with glory and honor.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit bay leaves image by Martin Garnham from Fotolia.com
