Umbellularia californica Family: Lauraceae

Common name: California Bay, Oregon Myrtle, California myrtle

Size: 6’ to 70’, usually 20 to 45’ , sometimes more shrublike . Easy to maintain as a bush.

Shape: Ovoid bushy habit, 2 x taller than wide. Often multiple trunks. Looser, more open in shade

Growth rate: Slow to medium with water Type: Broadleaf evergreen

Foliage: Green, simple elliptical/lance shaped leaves. Thick and leathery, shiny dark green above, lighter and duller below. AROMATIC!

Flowers: Small creamy flowers early spring, fragrant

Growing conditions: Sun or shade. Loves rich moist, well drained soil. Very drought tolerant

Climate zone: 7 to 10. Survives below 10 degrees F if established

Uses and comments: Excellent tall screen, clipped hedge, or specimen tree. May be slow to establish. Not the same as Mediterranean Bay Laurel used in cooking