A bay leaf is dark green in color on the top of the leaf, and a lighter green underneath. They are narrow in shape and very firm. California bay leaf is higher in essential oils and stronger in flavor than imported leaves. The trees themselves grow to 60 feet tall.

Bay Leaf

(Umbellularia californica)

Romans and Greeks of ancient times used bay leaf to crown their victors, while garlands of bay leaf honored their poets and scholars. In fact, the term “baccalaureate” literally means “laurel berries”, referring to the laurel wreaths worn by these learned individuals.

Try this:

Place whole leaves in soups and stews.
Use to roast a winter squash.
Place whole leaves under the skin of a chicken before baking.
Add to a basic white sauce for creamed spinach.