California Bay Laurel

Umbellularia californica

Leathery, smooth linear leaves and small ball-like spherical inflorescence clusters

A shrubby evergreen plant with many leaves at all heights.

Plant Description

Also called California Bay, this evergreen tree usually grows between 20 to 45 feet tall. It has smooth- edged lance-shaped leaves that smell peppery when crushed and can be used similarly – but more sparingly – to bay leaves sold commercially for cooking. The wood is used by woodworkers.

Plant Details

Life Forms	Broadleaf Tree
Habitats	Forests Little Habitats Residential yards Riparian areas
Soil and Moisture Conditions	Moist Nutrient rich soil Well drained
Special Uses	Attracts birds Attracts pollinators and or other beneficial insects Blooms April Blooms February-March Blooms May Flowers green Flowers yellow Hedgerow Perennial Produces berries Produces fruit Produces nectar Produces nuts Produces pollen Provides soil stabilization Provides wildlife habitat Woody
Shade Preference	Full sun Part shade
Mature Height	6-60'