What is causing brown marks and holes in the leaves of my laurel?

Our Advice:

This is shot-hole, a bacterial disease that is much worse in a wet year. Remove dead or dying branches then spray the plant with Bordeaux mixture from Vitax or Fruit and Veg Disease Control from Bayer. Several sprays will be needed to get a full control.

Gardening Expert:
Steve Bradley

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Laurel: Overview

Laurel (Laurus nobilis) is an evergreen shrub or small tree that is native to the Mediterranean region. It is a member of the Lauraceae family, which also includes cinnamon, camphor, and avocado. Laurel has been cultivated for thousands of years and is widely used for its aromatic leaves, which are commonly used in cooking and herbal medicine.

Laurel: Characteristics

Laurel leaves are oval-shaped and glossy, with a leathery texture. They can grow up to 4 inches long and are dark green in colour. Laurel produces small, yellow-green flowers in spring, which are followed by black or purple berries in the fall. The tree can grow up to 40 feet tall, but is often pruned to a smaller size in cultivation.

Laurel: Cultivation

Laurel is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can be grown in a wide range of conditions. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant once established, but benefits from regular watering in dry periods. Laurel is also tolerant of salt spray, making it a good choice for coastal gardens. Pruning can be done in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and size.

Laurel: Uses

Laurel is most commonly used for its aromatic leaves, which are used in cooking to flavour soups, stews, and sauces. The leaves can be used fresh or dried and are also used in herbal medicine for their anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and digestive properties. In addition to its culinary and medicinal uses, laurel is also used in landscaping as a hedge or screen plant, as well as in topiary and as a specimen plant in gardens and parks.

Laurel is a versatile and useful plant that has been cultivated for thousands of years for its culinary and medicinal properties. With its glossy leaves, fragrant flowers, and tolerance for a wide range of growing conditions, it is a popular choice for both ornamental and functional purposes.

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