California Laurel

(Umbellularia californica)

California Laurel (Umbellularia californica)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Umbellularia californica, commonly known as California Laurel or Bay Laurel, is an evergreen tree or large shrub native to the coastal forests of the California Floristic Province, including the Sierra foothills, and extending into southwestern Oregon. It can vary greatly in size, from a small multi-stemmed shrub of 6 feet (1.8 meters) to a large tree reaching up to 45 feet (13.7 meters) in height, with a width ranging from 3 to 24 feet (0.9 to 7.3 meters). The species is characterized by its aromatic, leathery leaves and small yellowish-green flowers that bloom in spring, followed by purple fruits. The bark is smooth and pale gray when young, becoming ridged and darker with age.

California Laurel is valued for its versatility and adaptability, often used as a screen or hedge in urban landscapes, and its leaves are used culinarily for their flavor. It thrives in a variety of soil types, from well-drained to clay, and prefers part shade to full sun exposure. While it is drought-tolerant once established, moderate watering helps maintain its lush appearance. Gardeners should be aware that the leaves contain compounds that can be toxic to other plants, so careful consideration should be given to its placement. Additionally, the tree can suffer from root rot in poorly drained soils and is susceptible to sudden oak death, a disease that affects many oak species.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 15-40 feet
  • Width: 10-24 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Winter
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Fire Resistant, Hummingbird Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to coastal forests and the Sierra foothills of California, extending into southwestern Oregon

Other Names

Common Names: California-Laurel, California-Nutmeg, California-Olive, Headachetree, Pepperwood, Oregon Myrtle, California Bay, Myrtlewood, Berglorbeer, Kalifornisk Lager, California Bay Tree

Scientific Names: , Umbellularia californica, Umbellularia californica var. californica, Oreodaphne californica, Persea causticans, Tetranthera californica, Drimophyllum pauciflorum, Litsea californica, Oreodaphne regalis, Tetranthera causticans

GBIF Accepted Name: Umbellularia californica (Hook. & Arn.) Nutt.