Laurus nobilis ‘Miles Choice’ (Bay Tree)
Laurus nobilis ‘Miles Choice’ is a compact, evergreen form of the classic Bay Tree, valued for its dense growth, aromatic foliage, and refined structure. It is widely used in hedging, topiary, and feature planting where a neat, formal appearance is desired.
This variety offers a more controlled and uniform habit, making it especially suitable for modern landscapes and architectural garden designs.
Key Specifications
Botanical name: Laurus nobilis ‘Miles Choice’
Common name: Miles Choice Bay Tree
Plant type: Evergreen shrub / small tree
Mature height: 3 to 5 metres
Mature width: 1.5 to 3 metres
Typical hedge height: 1.5 to 3 metres
Typical hedge width: 1 to 2 metres
Growth rate: Moderate
Time to maturity: Approximately 3 to 5 years
Growth Habit and Structure
Laurus ‘Miles Choice’ forms a dense, upright shrub with a naturally compact habit.
Tightly branched and uniform growth
Maintains a neat, structured form
Ideal for shaping into hedges or topiary
Its consistent growth makes it well suited for formal planting.
Foliage and Appearance
The foliage is both ornamental and aromatic.
Leaves are:
Medium-sized, oval, and slightly pointed
Glossy deep green
Highly fragrant when crushed
The rich green foliage provides a clean and polished appearance year-round.
Growth and Establishment
This variety establishes steadily and develops a dense structure.
Early stage:
Focuses on root development and base growth
1–2 years:
Forms a compact, bushy plant
3–5 years:
Reaches mature size with strong density
Its moderate growth allows for precise shaping and control.
Light Requirements
Performs best in full sun to partial shade.
Full sun:
Encourages dense growth and strong structure
Partial shade:
Maintains healthy foliage with slightly softer growth
Suitable for a wide range of garden positions.
Watering Requirements
Responds well to consistent watering during establishment.
During establishment:
Water regularly to support root development
Once established:
Water weekly or as needed depending on conditions
In warmer periods:
Additional watering supports healthy growth
Consistent moisture promotes a full, dense plant.
Soil Preferences
Performs best in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter.
Suitable for:
Loam soils
Sandy soils
Improved clay soils
Adapts well to various soil types when properly prepared.
Pruning and Maintenance
Highly responsive to pruning and ideal for shaping.
Regular trimming maintains dense growth and clean lines
Perfect for hedging and topiary forms
Can be shaped into formal designs such as cones or standards
Pruning enhances both structure and density.
Fertilising
Benefits from regular feeding.
Apply a balanced fertiliser during the growing season
Organic mulch improves soil condition
Feeding supports healthy foliage and steady growth.
Flowering Features
Produces small, pale yellow flowers in suitable conditions.
Flowers are:
Subtle and understated
Typically appear in spring
The plant is primarily grown for its foliage and structure.
Spacing Guide
For hedging:
Plant 80 cm to 1.2 metres apart
Closer spacing creates a denser hedge
Wider spacing allows individual plant form
Landscaping Uses
Laurus ‘Miles Choice’ is ideal for:
Formal hedging
Topiary and shaped plants
Feature planting
Courtyards and entryways
Container planting
Its structured growth makes it a key plant in architectural garden designs.
Longevity and Performance
A long-lasting and reliable plant that maintains form and appearance over time.
Provides consistent greenery and structure
Suitable for long-term landscape use
Maintains a dense, uniform habit with regular pruning
Summary
Laurus nobilis ‘Miles Choice’ is a compact evergreen shrub or small tree growing to approximately 3–5 metres tall and 1.5–3 metres wide. It establishes within 3–5 years, forming a dense, structured plant with glossy, aromatic foliage.
Its tidy growth, versatility, and suitability for shaping make it an excellent choice for hedging, topiary, and formal landscape designs.
