Genus of 2 species of evergreen shrubs and trees from woodland, scrub and rocky places in the Azores, the Canary Islands, and the Mediterranean. Popular since classical times when heroes were awarded laurel wreaths, these compact evergreen shrubs or trees have dense, aromatic foliage. Can be espaliered on a wall or trellis, or left to grow into a bushy shape. They grow well in containers and, once established, they tolerate smog, heat, dust and drought. Where summers are hot, plant in some shade. Prune to control shape and size. Prune suckers annually. It will thrive under ordinary room conditions if it is kept in a sunny spot, given plenty of fresh air and watered with care. Overwatering in winter is the usual cause of failure. Keep the shrub trimmed to 3-4 ft high and place outdoors in summer. The plant can be tremmed into a geometric or fanciful shape.