Also called Grecian or true Bay. When you make a pot of soup, wouldn t you like to reach out your window and pick a bay leaf from this beautiful broad-leafed evergreen? Or take fragrant branches and make edible wreaths or garlands? There is another bay leaf, (Umbellularia californica), that can be used for fragrant decorations or for cooking, but the more delicate flavor of Sweet Bay is the original ingredient suggested for stews, roasts, and the French spice blend bouquet garni .