Umbellularia californica

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California Bay, Oregon Myrtle

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

 

Description

The California Bay is an aromatic evergreen tree or large shrub that is very slow growing and reaches 30'-60' high. It can tolerate sun or shade , moist or dry conditions, and droughts. The California Bay is a native of California and Oregon.

 

  • Anatomy

  • Culture

  • Design

Plant Type

Tree

 

Height Range

40-60'

 

Flower Color

Yellow

 

Flower Season

Spring

 

Leaf Color

Dark Green

 

Bark Color

Brown

 

Fruit Color

Green

 

Fruit Season

Fall

Sun

Full, Half, Shade

 

Water

Medium

 

Growth Rate

Slow

 

Soil Type

Clay, Loam

 

Soil Condition

Average, Rich, Well-drained, Moist

 

Soil pH

Acid, Neutral

 

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

Formal, Mediterranean, Spanish, Wild Garden

 

Accenting Features

Fragrance, Multi-trunk Tree, Specimen

 

Seasonal Interest

Spring, Fall

 

Location Uses

Background, Patio, Street Tree

 

Special Uses

Hedge, Screen, Wind Break, Shade Tree, Fire Resistant, Naturalizing

 

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

Water Saving Tip:

Fix leaking sprinklers, valves, and pipes.

One broken spray sprinkler can waste 10 gallons per minute - or 100 gallons in a typical 10 minute watering cycle.