Chile laurel

plant

Also known as: Laurelia aromatica, Laurelia sempervirens, Peruvian nutmeg(Show More)

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June 24, 2026

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The term "Chilean laurel" refers to Laurelia sempervirens, also known as Peruvian nutmeg. This plant is native to central Chile and is part of the Atherospermataceae family.12

The bay laurel, Laurus nobilis, is a different species from the Mediterranean region, known for its aromatic leaves used as a cooking herb. Both Chilean laurel and bay laurel belong to the broader order Laurales, which includes trees, shrubs, and woody vines found in tropical and warm temperate climates. Members of Laurales are often aromatic and can yield lumber, medicinal extracts, and essential oils.32

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Laurales
Other families
…family Atherospermataceae, is known as Chile laurel or Peruvian nutmeg, and its seeds are ground up and used as a spice. Laurelia novae-zelandiae is used in New Zealand for boat building and furniture making. It yields a light, hard wood that is difficult to split and that dents rather than…
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…family Atherospermataceae, is known as Chile laurel or Peruvian nutmeg, and its seeds are ground up and used as a spice. Laurelia novae-zelandiae is used in New Zealand for boat building and furniture making. It yields a light, hard wood that is difficult to split and that dents rather than…
Read More