The Bay tree Laurus nobilis is an aromatic evergreen tree or shrub with green, glossy leaves, native to the Mediterranean region.
The tree can vary greatly in size and height, sometimes reaching 7–18 metres (23–59 ft) tall. This tree must be about as tall as they get maybe 15mLaurus is a genus of tree belonging to the Laurel family, Lauraceae.
The plant is the source of several popular herbs and one spice used in a wide variety of recipes, particularly among Mediterranean cuisines.Most commonly, the aromatic leaves are added whole to Italian pasta sauces. However, even when cooked, whole bay leaves can be sharp and abrasive enough to damage internal organs, so they are typically removed from dishes before serving, unless used as a simple garnish. Whole bay leaves have a long shelf life of about one year, under normal temperature and humidity. Whole bay leaves are used almost exclusively as flavour agents during the food preparation stage.
Ground bay leaves, however, can be ingested safely and are often used in soups and stocks, as well as being a common addition to a Bloody Mary . Dried laurel berries and pressed leaf oil can both be used as robust spices, and the wood can be burnt for strong smoke flavoring .
My friend lives here and has given permission for me to place this here. She is a massive fan of birds and a lifelong member of the RSPB so it only seemed right to have a bird nesting in the tree.