The tej patta plant, scientifically known as Cinnamomum tamala, is an aromatic evergreen tree prized for its leaves, commonly called Indian bay leaves. Native to northern India, Nepal, and other parts of South Asia, it is a hardy, medium-sized tree that can reach heights of 8 to 20 meters in its natural habitat. The tree belongs to the family Lauraceae, which also includes cinnamon. Its bark is brownish and aromatic, while its branches are rounded.
The tej patta's most defining feature is its long, dark green, ovate-lanceolate leaves, which are leathery in texture and have three distinct veins. When crushed, the leaves release a warm, sweet, peppery, and clove-like aroma. Yellowish flowers typically appear in clusters during the winter, followed by small, purple, single-seeded fruits in the summer.
In addition to its widespread use as a spice in Indian, Nepali, and Mughlai cuisine, tej patta is valued for its traditional medicinal properties. The leaves contain essential oils and antioxidants, used in Ayurveda to aid digestion, manage inflammation, and help with respiratory issues. It is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can be grown in warm, subtropical climates with well-drained soil, making it a valuable addition to both home gardens and commercial spice farms.
🌿 Tej Patta Plant (Bay Leaf Plant) – Perfect for Home Garden & Kitchen Use
The Tej Patta Plant, also known as the Bay Leaf Plant, is an evergreen aromatic herb widely used in Indian cooking for its distinct flavor and fragrance. Its glossy green leaves are rich in essential oils and add a refreshing aroma to soups, curries, biryanis, and stews.
Native to the Mediterranean region, this hardy plant is ideal for home gardens, balconies, and kitchen gardens. It is low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and adds a touch of greenery and freshness to your space while providing fresh organic bay leaves for daily use.
🪴 Plant Details
Plant Type: Sapling
Plant Height: 20 Inches
Plant Age: 2 Years
🌱 Plant Care
Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade (at least 4–6 hours of sunlight daily)
Watering: Water moderately; allow topsoil to dry between watering
Soil: Well-draining loamy soil with organic compost
Fertilizer: Apply organic compost or mild fertilizer every 30–45 days
Pruning: Trim regularly to maintain shape and encourage bushy growth
Temperature: Thrives in warm climates (15–35°C); protect from frost
🪴 Potting Time
🌟 Key Features
Aromatic evergreen plant with glossy green leaves
Commonly used in Indian and Mediterranean cooking
Low-maintenance and drought-tolerant
Perfect for home gardens, kitchen gardens, and balconies
Provides fresh, organic bay leaves year-round