The Swamp Bay is a large shrub or a small tree with a dense, rounded canopy and a crooked or leaning trunk. It has dark, reddish-brown bark and dark blue fruits. It is grown for its beautiful, aromatic, evergreen foliage. The leaves are dark green, leathery and shiny. The wood is dark reddish-brown and is used for interior work and for fine cabinetwork and for lumber. The leaves are used to flavor soups. It is native to the southeastern United States. Hardy in zones 7b-11.