Umbellularia californica [Fresno, CA]

Also Known As

Oreodaphne californica
Umbellularia californica 'fresnensis'
Umbellularia californica var. fresnensis
California Bay
CALIFORNIA BAY
California Bay Laurel
California Laurel
Mountain Laurel
Oregon Myrtle
Peppernut Tree
Pepperwood
Spicebush

Plant type

tree

size

H: 30'-60'
W: 20'-60'

planting zones

7a-10b

Umbellularia californica [Fresno, CA] plant details

Umbellularia californica [Fresno, CA] is a broadleaf evergreen tree with green foliage. In spring yellow flowers emerge. Attracts bees making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - dappled shade and occasional - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Prefers to be dry in summer. Adapts to various soil conditions. Does well in average, clay, gritty, lean, rich, rocky and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant and verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Umbellularia californica [Fresno, CA]

Plant type: tree
Plant family: lauraceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 20 FT - 60 FT - wide, 30 FT - 60 FT - tall
Flowers: yellow blooms in spring
Uses: fragrant foliage

GROWING CONDITIONS for Umbellularia californica [Fresno, CA]

USDA Zones: 7a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun - dappled shade
Watering frequency: occasional - low
Resistant to: deer and rabbit, heat and verticillium wilt
Soil needs: average, clay, gritty, lean, rich, rocky and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Seemingly distinct from the species, this variety is known only from woods in Fresno County, California, where its pungent evergreen foliage and small yellow flowers, followed by large green seeds, are enjoyed. S-PSh/M-W

By: Forestfarm

Previously known as U. californica var. fresnensis and now included in the straight species, this form of the California bay laurel from Fresno, California has some distinctive features. A large growing, broad-leaved evergreen, these can reach to 30-40' or more, often with weeping foliage, the leathery leaves undercoated with soft, light-colored pubescence, making them particularly attractive and lighter in appearance than typical. Leaves are aromatic, as usual, and useful in cooking, a bit stronger than true bay leaves from Laurus nobilis. Small yellowish flowers are produced in spring followed by a round, green berry that matures purple. Full sun for the best pyramidal form, good drainage, and little summer water once established. Frost hardy to 0 °F, USDA zone 7.

By: Cistus Nursery

Garden photo gallery of Umbellularia californica [Fresno, CA]

Photo of Umbellularia californica [Fresno, CA] flower, foliage by US Government

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By: US Government

This work has been released into the public domain by its author.

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Photo of Umbellularia californica [Fresno, CA] foliage, fruit by Walter Siegmund

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By: Walter Siegmund

This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 license.

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Gardening facts about Umbellularia californica [Fresno, CA] plant

How to Grow Umbellularia californica [Fresno, CA]

Sun Exposure
- sun - dappled shade
Water Needs
- occasional - drought tolerant
Water Needs
- dry in summer
Soil Needs
- clay
- adaptable
- average
- lean
- well-drained
- rich
- rocky
- gritty
Special Situation
- heat tolerant
- verticillium wilt resistant