Persea palustris

Also Known As

Red Bay
Swamp Bay
Swamp Red Bay

Plant type

tree

size

H: 30'-50'
W: 20'

planting zones

8a-10b

Persea palustris plant details

Persea palustris is a broadleaf evergreen tree with green foliage. Features glossy texture. Attracts butterflies making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - mostly sun and even moisture - regular water. Does well in acidic and well-drained soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Persea palustris

Plant type: tree
Plant family: lauraceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 0 - 20 FT - wide, 30 FT - 50 FT - tall
Uses: culinary, year round interest

GROWING CONDITIONS for Persea palustris

USDA Zones: 8a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun - mostly sun
Watering frequency: even moisture - regular
Resistant to: deer
Soil needs: acidic and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

The Swamp Red Bay is a small evergreen tree native to the bogs and baygalls of much of the Atlantic sea board as well as the Gulf coast. It rarely exceeds about 30'H but may reach 50' or more under good conditions. Like the Bay Leaf or Sweet Bay of cooking, the leaves of the Swamp Red Bay can be used for similar purposes. Caterpillar host for the Spicebush Swallowtail butterfly. For best results provide the Swamp Red Bay with a consistently moist acidic soil in an area that receives 6 or more hours of direct sun per day. The Swamp Red Bay and Red Bay, Persea palustris and P. borbonia respectively, are both under threat from multiple foreign pests.