Umbellularia californica

California Bay

Photo of Umbellularia californica - California Bay

No photo for the moment for Umbellularia californica - California Bay

Add a photo of Umbellularia californica

Please note: You must be the owner of the posted photo and it must not be copyrighted.

Things You Must Knows cannot be held responsible for photos posted in violation of this rule

Common Name:

California Bay

Plant Type:

Flower color:

Yellow

Foliage color:

Green

Sun (From 0 to 5):

1

Water (From 0 to 5):

2

Maximum temperature:

36°C

Minimum temperature:

7°C

Maximum height:

2135 cm

Maximum width:

1220 cm

California Bay (Umbellularia californica) - Description

Umbellularia californica is a large hardwood tree native to coastal forests of California and slightly extended into the state of Oregon. It is endemic to the California Floristic Province. It is the sole species in the genus Umbellularia. The tree was formerly known as Oreodaphne californica. In Oregon, this tree is known as Oregon Myrtle, while in California it is called California Bay Laurel, which may be shortened to California bay or California laurel.

California Bay (Umbellularia californica) - Blooming

In the spring, the Umbellularia tree will bloom small yellow flowers.

California Bay (Umbellularia californica) - Growth

Evergreen tree. In the wild, the Umbellularia can grow to be a large shrub (found on windy hillsides near the coast) or a 75 ft. tall and over 100 ft. wide tree (in forests). In the garden, the Umbellularia will grow about 1 ft./year to about 20-25 ft. high and wide. Grows best in full sun. Less hardy plants should be protected from cold, dry winds. Umbellularia works best an ornamental tree. Also makes a nice hedge or screen.

California Bay (Umbellularia californica) - Planting

Tree can be transplanted if it is no more than 6 inches tall. Propagate from the seed in fall. Sow in containers in a cold frame (for protection and to ensure hardiness). Can also propagate from semi-ripe cuttings in summer.

California Bay (Umbellularia californica) - Pest

Aphids, whiteflies, and scale insects. Other issues include dieback, canker, bacterial leaf spot, wood rot, and anthracnose.

California Bay (Umbellularia californica) - Interesting facts

There is only one known species of Umbellularia, found in the coniferous forests of the Western United States. California Bays are cultivated for their aromatic foliage. When crushed, the scent of the leaves can cause headaches or nausea in some people.