Swamp bay (Persea palustris, Man. Trees, ed. 2: 358 (1922))

Family: Lauraceae

Author: (Raf.) Sarg.

Bibliography: Man. Trees, ed. 2: 358 (1922)

Year: 1922

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Persea

Vegetable: False

Observations: SE. U.S.A. to E. Texas, Bahamas

Description

Swamp bay, scientifically known as Persea palustris, is a fascinating species belonging to the Lauraceae family. This resilient tree is endemic to the southeastern United States, extending its reach as far west as eastern Texas, and is also found in the Bahamas. Authored in botanical literature by (Raf.) Sarg., it was notably referenced in the second edition of the “Manual of Trees” in 1922 under entry 358.

Swamp bay thrives in wetland habitats such as swamps and coastal plains, displaying an inherent tolerance for waterlogged soils that gives it a competitive edge in such environments. The tree is recognizable by its aromatic leaves, which emit a pleasant bay-like fragrance when crushed and are often utilized in traditional culinary and medicinal practices within its native regions.

Botanically, Persea palustris exhibits a robust growth pattern, characterized by its evergreen foliage that remains lush and verdant throughout the year. The leaves are glossy and dark green, providing a stark contrast to the often-overlooked swamp settings. Furthermore, its flowers, though inconspicuous, serve as essential attractants for various pollinators, supporting the delicate ecosystem dynamics of its habitat.

In addition to its ecological benefits, swamp bay plays a significant role in cultural and local traditions. Its leaves are sometimes used as a spice, although they should be distinguished from the culinary bay leaves of the true bay tree, Laurus nobilis. The tree’s timber, although infrequently harvested, is known for its durability and resistance to decay, making it a valuable resource in regions where it grows abundantly.

Persea palustris, despite facing challenges from habitat destruction and invasive species, showcases a serene resilience, encapsulating the essence of the lush, water-reliant ecosystems it inhabits. Through conservation efforts and increased awareness, the continued flourishing of swamp bay is crucial for maintaining the biodiversity and natural beauty of the wetlands it calls home.

Common Names

Eng: swamp bay, swampbay
En: Swamp bay, Swampbay

Synonyms

• Persea pubescens ((Pursh) Sarg.)
• Persea borbonia var. pubescens ((Pursh) Little)
• Persea carolinensis var. pubescens ((Pursh) Meisn.)
• Tamala pubescens ((Pursh) Small)
• Persea carolinensis f. pubescens ((Pursh) Mez)
• Persea borbonia subsp. pubescens ((Pursh) A.E.Murray)
• Persea carolinensis var. palustris ((Raf.) Chapm.)
• Persea palustris f. laevifolia (Fernald)
• Persea borbonia f. pubescens ((Pursh) Fernald)
• Borbonia pubescens ((Pursh) House)
• Laurus carolinensis var. pubescens (Pursh)
• Tamala palustris (Raf.)

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Bahamas (native)
• Delaware (native)
• Florida (native)
• Georgia (native)
• Louisiana (native)
• Maryland (native)
• Mississippi (native)
• North Carolina (native)
• South Carolina (native)
• Texas (native)
• Virginia (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Mar 29, 2022 by Maarten Vanhove (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3034052)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:190715-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Persea palustris (Raf.) Sarg.)

Specifications

Growth form>: Single Stem

Growth habit>: Shrub, Tree

Growth rate>: Moderate

Growth

Ph maximum: 7.0

Ph minimum: 5.0