Bay Rum
Pimenta racemosa

days to maturity:
plant spacing: 1 plant per 20 square feet
sunlight requirements: 6-14 hours
look out for: leaf fungus
harvest notes: allow to mature before a heavy harvest
seasons: spring, summer, fall, winter
perennial

The Bayberry or Bay Rum Tree, Pimenta racemosa, is a broadleaved tropical evergreen native to the islands of the Caribbean. The tree is known for the essential oil present in the leaves and stems. This oil, composed of terpenes, has a clove-like fragrance. Bay Rum first became popularized as a ‘rub’ for sore muscles, strains, and sprains. The essential oil was also reported to contain diterpene, having anti-bacterial properties. A popular aftershave in the early 20th century, made from the leaves of the tree and rum, giving the aftershave its spicy notes from the bay and its smoky, woody tones from the aged rum. Like its relative Allspice, Bay Rum Tree leaves can also be used to infuse teas and syrups with its scent and flavor. This Bay Rum variety has an especially lemony scent.