Laurel

Laurel is a shrub with aromatic leaves, typical of Mediterranean regions. There are several varieties that adapt well to our climate and flower at different times of the year. It is mainly found in gardens, where it forms attractive hedges thanks to its dense green foliage.

Laurus nobilis is a plant belonging to the laurel family (Lauraceae) that can reach up to 10 metres in height. Its elongated, rather leathery leaves release a pleasant aroma when crushed. The flowers appear as small yellowish-green umbels in the leaf axils. Male and female flowers are borne on separate plants, making laurel a dioecious species.

More common in Valais is cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus), which is highly resistant to cold. Its flowers form white, highly decorative and fragrant spikes that bloom in spring and, depending on the variety, sometimes even in winter. In a hedge, however, it can be observed that only some plants bear flowers, while others remain without blossoms.

The nectaries, located at the base of the stamens of the male flowers, produce a substantial quantity of nectar, which constitutes a good food source for bees at the beginning of the season. The flowers also provide pollen of good nutritional value.

Bees are not the only ones to appreciate laurel: its leaves are widely used in cooking to flavour meat dishes, fish, and many other foods.

The ancient Greeks regarded this plant as sacred, in memory of the nymph Daphne who, weary of the relentless pursuit of Apollo, was transformed into a laurel tree.

Sources

T. Silberfeld, C. Reeb, Melliferous plants, 2016