McCormick Whole Bay Leaves in Bulk at .com. The bay tree is native to the Mediterranean region and Asia Minor. The bay or laurel tree grows well in the subtropics and is cultivated today as a spice in the Far East as well as the Canary Islands, France, Belgium, Mexico, Central America and Turkey (where McCormick’s bay leaves are grown). Bay Leaves are robust, strongly aromatic with a woody, astringent flavor and a pleasant, slightly minty aroma. Indispensable to most cuisines, especially French, Mediterranean, and Indian, they are used to flavor all kinds of meat and vegetable dishes, soups and sauces. 2 oz. Container