Laurus nobilis
Specifications
Family
Lauraceae
Species
Laurus nobilis L.
bay laurel
sweet bay
bay tree
true laurel
grecian laurel
Description
Laurel wood can present various colors, generally light, is fibrous, and often has interwoven grain. It is known for its pleasant, sometimes spicy aroma, especially when processed.
Plant morphology
It can grow as a tree (up to 10 m tall) or a shrub. The stem is erect and has blackish-green bark. The ovate, dark green, leathery leaves are glossy on the upper surface and dull on the underside, and very fragrant. It is a dioecious plant, and the fruits are glossy black drupes.
Natural occurrence
Countries of origin and distribution
Northern coasts of the Mediterranean Sea: Spain, Greece, Asia Minor. In Italy, it grows wild in coastal areas and in central and southern Italy, while it is cultivated or spontaneously grown in northern Italy.
Habitat and ecology
It is typical of the Lauretum, the group of plant communities that grow in the less arid and cooler areas of the Mediterranean scrub. It is part of the habitats listed in the Habitats Directive "Matorral a Laurus nobilis" (priority) and "Laurus nobilis scrubland."
Uses
Use class
CU1
CU2
CU3
CU4
CU5
Application areas
Turning work.
Threats and Conservation
Threats
In some areas, overharvesting has led to a marked decline in populations.
Conservation measures
Protection of the Mediterranean maquis. The habitats "Laurus nobilis scrubland" and "Laurus nobilis scrubland" are listed in Annex I of the Habitats Directive.
IUCN Red List
IUCN
LC - Least Concern - Low Risk
CITES. Year of assessment
CITES
2017
1975
2050
CITES Italia • Ultimo aggiornamento
2017
Not present.
Technical data
Aesthetic characteristics
Grain
Slightly obvious
Texture
Fine
Physical and mechanical properties
Density
ρ
ρ
740
kg/m3
Radial shrinkage
Rad. sh.
Rad. sh.
Medium
Tangential shrinkage
Tang. sh.
Tang. sh.
Medium
Durability characteristics
Fungal resistance
Not very durable