In Greek mythology, laurel was sacred to Apollo, the Olympian god of prophecy and music.
The association began with the myth of Daphne, a nymph who fled Apollo and was transformed into a laurel tree. In Ovid’s Roman-era retelling, Daphne’s father, the river god Peneus, changed her to protect her from Apollo. Apollo then adopted the laurel as his sacred plant and wore its leaves as a crown.
Laurel became especially important at Delphi, Apollo’s famous sanctuary and oracle. Victorious athletes and poets could receive laurel wreaths, linking the plant with achievement, artistic excellence, and divine favor. The English word “laureate” ultimately reflects this ancient custom.
Laurel should not be confused with the olive, which was especially associated with Athena, or ivy, which was strongly connected with Dionysus. Botanical laurel species and the bay leaves used in cooking are related to the traditional symbol, though ancient literary descriptions do not always provide modern scientific precision.