The laurel tree is a small unimpressive shrub or tree, originating in the eastern Mediterranean countries, or perhaps in Asia. It has been known for thousands of years, but the use of its leaves as a household culinary herb is a comparatively recent one. The tree, Laurus Nobilis, is cultivated in China, Israel, Lebanon, Turkey, Yugoslavia, U.S.S.R., Italy, Sardinia and France. Blends well with citrus oils and spice oils.