Photo of Umbellularia californica [dwarf form O'Brien Bog] flower, foliage by Eugene Zelenko

Photo by Eugene Zelenko

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Umbellularia californica [dwarf form O'Brien Bog]

Also Known As

  • Dwarf California Bay
  • Dwarf Oregon Myrtle

Plant type

tree, shrub

size

  • H: 6'-8'
  • W: 3'-5'

planting zones

  • 6a-10b

Umbellularia californica [dwarf form O'Brien Bog] plant details

Umbellularia californica [dwarf form O'Brien Bog] is a broadleaf evergreen shrub or tree with green foliage. In spring yellow flowers emerge followed by green fruit. Drought tolerant once established. Does well in well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Umbellularia californica [dwarf form O'Brien Bog]

Plant type: shrub or tree
Plant family: lauraceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 3 FT - 5 FT - wide, 6 FT - 8 FT - tall
Flowers: yellow blooms in spring
Uses: dense, pyramidal

GROWING CONDITIONS for Umbellularia californica [dwarf form O'Brien Bog]

USDA Zones: 6a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun - mostly shade
Resistant to: verticillium wilt
Soil needs: well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

O'Brien Bog. A Cistus introduction. Dwarf Oregon myrtle (or dwarf California bay if living south of 42 degrees north). A normally stately tree in the avocado family inhabiting western Oregon and coastal California, these Siskiyou endemic forms reach only 6-8' as dense shrubs with evergreen leaves emerging bronze and aging to deep green. This clone becomes a dense, pyramidal form with leaves held upright displaying bluish undersides. A perfect chance to acquire this wonderful species in a manageable size. Small clusters of brush-like, yellow flowers produce shiny, green, nearly 1" “avocados” in autumn. Aromatic leaves can be used as seasoning (they are related to the Grecian Laurus nobilis). Should be an iconic shrub for the West Coast. Drought tolerant for sun or part shade. Frost hardy to -10 °F, USDA Zone 6, at least.

Gardening facts about Umbellularia californica [dwarf form O'Brien Bog] plant

How to Grow Umbellularia californica [dwarf form O'Brien Bog]

  • Sun Exposure

    • sun - mostly shade
  • Water Needs

    • drought tolerant
  • Soil Needs

    • well-drained
  • Special Situation

    • verticillium wilt resistant

Features

  • Foliage Color

    • green
  • Flower Color

    • yellow
  • Fruit

    • green
  • Flower Season

    • spring
  • Foliage Season

    • evergreen
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