Are laurel and bay leaves the same?

Are laurel and bay leaves the same?

Bay leaf is Laurus nobilis In the Philippines, bay leaf is laurel. ... So, laurel is the more accurate term to use to refer to the leaves we add to our adobo and other stews because bay leaf can refer to other plants such as Indian bay leaf, Indonesian bay leaf and Mexican bay leaf which are not Laurus nobilis.

Is Bay Laurel poisonous?

With the exception of Bay Laurel, the short answer is yes. All other Laurel hedging varieties (including berries) are poisonous to both humans and animals. Laurel hedge plants produce hydrocyanic acid which can cause serious complications if ingested.

Is Bay Laurel Fast growing?

L. nobilis grows several inches each year. Photo by Lorna Kring. Planted in the garden, it can reach a mature height of 25-55 feet, although most are kept at 2-8 feet with persistent trimming.

How can you tell the difference between a bay and a laurel?

All California bays can form fruit because the flowers have both stamens and pistils. The bay laurel, on the other hand, has female flowers, with only a pistil, on some trees, and male flowers, with only stamens, on others. Only the female trees will fruit. Having fruit, you could tell the difference by the fruit size.

What is bay laurel used for?

Bay laurel (Laurus nobilis, Lauraceae). Fresh or dried bay leaves are used in cooking for their distinctive flavour and fragrance. The leaves should be removed from the cooked food before eating (see safety section below). The leaves are often used to flavour soups, stews, braises and pâtés in many countries.

Does a bay leaf really add flavor?

Bay leaves, despite their modest appearance, are very flavorful. Like all herbs, they pack a punch in a small package, whether you use them fresh or dried. Their flavor might not be as bold and distinguishable as basil or cilantro, but it works as an aromatic to impart subtle background flavor.