Sortable plant reference

Bay Tree & Evergreen Hedge Growth Rate Lookup

Compare bay trees with 20 related evergreen hedge, topiary, and aromatic plants. Filter by speed, hardiness, container suitability, or shaping potential, then sort any column.

10–30 cm/yrTypical bay laurel annual growth in favorable conditions
3.3–10 yearsApproximate time for an untrimmed bay to gain 1 meter
5–12 mPotential outdoor height when allowed to grow freely
1–3 mCommonly manageable size range in containers

In the ground

Fastest relative growth, broadest canopy, and greatest eventual height.

In containers

Controlled growth; repotting and drainage strongly affect vigor.

As a clipped hedge

Slower height gain but denser branching from regular trimming.

21 plants shown Click a column heading to sort ↕
Plant Growth/yr Speed Years to gain 1 m Mature height USDA zones Light Container Hedge/topiary Culinary/aromatic Planning notes
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How to use the ranges

Planning assumptions

  • Growth ranges describe typical annual extension under favorable establishment and care.
  • The “years to gain 1 m” field is calculated as 100 cm divided by the listed annual growth range.
  • Regular clipping, container restriction, drought, frost, poor drainage, and low fertility can reduce extension growth.
  • Mature heights describe unclipped plants; maintained hedges can be kept far smaller.

Safety and selection checks

  • “Aromatic” does not automatically mean edible. Use only correctly identified culinary plants.
  • Yew, box, privet, and cherry/Portuguese laurels contain toxic plant parts; keep them away from grazing animals and children who may ingest plants.
  • Check local invasive-plant guidance before planting privet, ficus, or other vigorous species.
  • Confirm local winter lows, soil drainage, salt exposure, and mature root/canopy space before choosing.