Umbellularia californica

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California Bay or Laurel, Oregon My

 
California Native Plant
Plant photo of: Umbellularia californica
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Information by: Jerry Sortomme        Photographer: Greg Applegate

 

Description

The California Bay is an aromatic evergreen tree or large shrub that slowly reaches 30'-60' high. It tolerates full sun in coastal areas but prefers afternoon shade in warm, inland areas and moderate amount of water. Use foliage for cooking, which is more pungent thatn Sweet Bay leaf. Yellow flowers appear in spring, followed by purple, inedible fruit.

 

  • Anatomy

  • Sun/Water

  • Design

Plant Type

Tree, Shrub

 

Height Range

40-60'

 

Flower Color

Yellow

 

Flower Season

Spring

 

Leaf Color

Dark Green

 

Bark Color

Brown, Red

 

Fruit Color

Purple

 

Fruit Season

Summer

Water Saving Tip:

Replace turf with groundcovers, trees, and shrubs. If you have areas where no one uses the grass, patches that do not grow well, or a turf area too small to water without runoff, consider replacing the turf with water-efficient landscaping.