Standard bay laurel Laurus including basket - Hardy plantFresh laurel from your own garden. The bay laurel (Laurus nobilis) will make your garden or patio smell amazing. Use the small green leaves to add flavour to your dishes. The standard ball shaped shrub is also a decorative plant. The decorative basket completes the picture. To preserve its lovely shape, trim the shrub in autumn. The bay laurel thrives in a sunny spot. Keep it nice and moist. Give it extra water during dry periods.