Bay Laurel Meaning — Symbolism, Colours & Gifting
What do bay laurels symbolise? Their meaning in the language of flowers, colour by colour, plus when to give them — a florist's gifting guide.
Bay laurel (Laurus nobilis) is the aromatic evergreen of classical wreaths and Mediterranean cooking, valued by florists for its firm, glossy dark-green leaves and warm, spicy scent. The sturdy, upright stems make crisp foliage for garlands, wreaths and structured arrangements. Leaves are long-lasting and dry beautifully, holding shape and fragrance for months. Its rich history of honour and victory adds meaning to celebratory work.
TL;DR. Bay Laurels stand for victory, honour, glory and protection in the language of flowers. Colour shifts the message — red for love, white for purity, pink for gratitude.
What Bay Laurels symbolise
In the language of flowers bay laurels carry meanings of victory, honour, glory and protection. A bouquet is never only decorative — the flower you choose, and the colour you choose it in, is a message. That is what makes bay laurels such a considered gift: they say something the card alone cannot.
For the botany, varieties and full profile, see the Bay Laurel encyclopedia entry.
Bay Laurels by colour — what each shade says
Bay Laurels come in several colours, and each one tilts the meaning:
- Green bay laurels — renewal, health and good fortune.
Browse arrangements and pairings by shade in the flowers by colour guide.
When to give Bay Laurels
Bay Laurels are a natural fit for weddings, Christmas and the holidays. Match the colour to the sentiment — love, thanks, congratulations or comfort — and the bouquet does the talking. For seasonal timing and what pairs well, see the Bay Laurel entry.
Bay Laurels in a meaningful bouquet
Meaning works best when it is intentional. Choose the colour for the message, keep the number of stems in mind (in many traditions odd numbers are for joy), and let the recipient know what the flowers say. Then give them the care they deserve — see how to keep bay laurels fresh — so the message lasts as long as possible.
From the Lacy Bird studio. This guide is written by our florists. We deliver seasonal flowers across the UAE — see flower delivery in Dubai — and we teach floristry, from a first bouquet to running your own shop, at the Lacy Bird Academy.
Related reading:
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