In 2009 the Herb of the Year was the Bay Leaf.
Bay leaf is the aromatic leaf of the evergreen sweet-bay or laurel tree. This slow growing Mediterranean native can reach 50 feet in height in it’s native habitat. Bay is not hardy in northern climates and is cultivated in Central America and our Southern states. In the United States most bay is grown in pots.
Bay is one of the essential ingredients of bouquet garni. Bay leaves are also used to season soups, stews, pasta sauces and meat dishes.