A
laurel wreath is a circular
wreath made of interlocking branches and leaves of the
bay laurel (
Laurus nobilis), an aromatic broadleaf evergreen, or later from spineless butcher's broom (
Ruscus hypoglossum) or cherry laurel (
Prunus laurocerasus). In
Greek mythology,
Apollo is represented wearing a laurel wreath on his head. In
ancient Greece wreaths were awarded to victors, both in athletic competitions, including the ancient
Olympics made of wild olive-tree known as
"kotinos" (κότινος), (sc. at
Olympia) and in poetic meets; in
Rome they were symbols of martial victory, crowning a successful commander during his
triumph. Whereas ancient laurel wreaths are most often depicted as a
horseshoe shape, modern versions are usually complete rings.