The bay laurel tree, native to Vietnam, boasts white flowers with a subtle yellow hue. These blooms emerge from small spikes at the leaf axils or branch tips and grace the tree year-round with their enchanting fragrance. The tree has a straight, smooth trunk and reaches a modest height of 2 to 8 meters, often boasting a picturesque silhouette.
Today, bay laurel is a popular choice for bonsai and ornamental gardening. Its pale yellow wood is also prized for artisanal crafts.
The Feng Shui Significance of Bay Laurel
Bay laurel is revered in Feng Shui for its lush foliage and pristine white flower clusters that exude a soothing fragrance. In Greek mythology, bay laurel symbolized aspiration and triumph over life’s challenges.
Placing bay laurel in your home is thought to attract good fortune, foster success in careers, and bring financial prosperity. It is also believed to inspire faith and a desire for family members to thrive in health, peace, and academic excellence, with all endeavors flowing smoothly.
Additionally, bay laurel is believed to ward off negative energies, evil spirits, and bad luck, inviting abundance and good luck into your home.
While the aroma of bay laurel is renowned for its therapeutic effects, it’s important to note that prolonged and close exposure to its intense fragrance may cause mild headaches.
This versatile tree is ideal for landscaping, potted plants on desks and study tables, and even as a welcoming presence at your front door.
The Practical Uses of Bay Laurel
In traditional Vietnamese medicine, bay laurel is valued for its bitter, pungent, and warm properties. It is used to address inflammation, provide local anesthesia, and treat conditions such as rheumatism, diarrhea, joint pain, and insect bites.
The leaves of the bay laurel tree resemble those of the ngâu tree and possess astringent properties. They are used to treat coughs with phlegm, swelling, snake bites, and toothaches. The flowers contain essential oils that aid digestion and nourish the lungs.
Bay laurel also excels as an ornamental plant, whether in a garden or as a bonsai on a desk or study table. Its fragrant blooms are a delight to the senses.
Caring for Bay Laurel in Your Garden
One of the most endearing qualities of bay laurel is its remarkable tolerance for heat and sunlight. If your balcony or garden receives ample sunlight, especially from the west, bay laurel is an excellent choice as it thrives in these conditions. The more sunlight it receives, the more fragrant its flowers become, filling your space with a delightful aroma that also helps keep mosquitoes at bay.
Watering: Like all plants, bay laurel requires regular watering, especially when newly planted. Watering once a day is generally sufficient, as bay laurel thrives in moist environments. However, be cautious not to overwater, as standing water can be detrimental.
Soil: Bay laurel grows best in loamy soil with a bit of sand, ensuring a well-drained and airy environment. An ideal pH level falls between 4 and 7.
Light: Bay laurel adores sunlight, so ensure it receives an abundance of natural light. Be mindful of nearby plants that may cast excessive shade. If grown in a pot, place it in a sunny spot and give it a couple of hours of morning sun each day.
Fertilizer: While bay laurel is relatively low-maintenance, providing additional nutrients will enhance its growth. Apply micronutrient fertilizers or NPK fertilizers once a month.
Pruning and Repotting: Regularly observe your bay laurel to identify any dead, diseased, or overly mature branches that need pruning to maintain the plant’s health and shape. Repotting is recommended every 5 to 6 months, refreshing the soil to support the tree’s growth.
Pests and Diseases: Bay laurel is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it’s important to monitor the plant for any signs of infestation or infection and address them promptly.
The information in this article is for reference only and is not intended as medical or professional advice.
2023 Lunar New Year Gift Ideas for Older Family and Friends
As 2021 approaches, families worldwide are gathering to celebrate the special bond between grandparents and their grandchildren. To show their love and admiration, these thoughtfully chosen gifts will bring a smile to the face of the elderly. Here, we have compiled a list of the 13 most meaningful Tet presents that can bring joy to our beloved grandparents.