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California Native Plant

Umbellularia californica

California Laurel

Plant photo of: Umbellularia californica
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Information by: Plant Nerd and SelecTree        Photographer: Greg Applegate

 

Description

California Laurel (Umbellulara californica) is a large, aromatic, evergreen tree native to northern California coastal regions. It can grow up to 80' tall and 75’ wide. This is a very shade-tolerant tree that usually stays much smaller in hot, dry areas. It would be a good selection for mountain regions or cooler, wet coastal regions and would require very little maintenance if it was allowed the space it needs to reach its mature size. This tree is not recommended for small- and medium-sized gardens, as its size and moderate water needs will outcompete other plantings. It should be planted at least eight feet away from any hardscape areas, 15 feet from structures such as houses and buildings, and not near any powerlines. Shrubs and perennials should be planted about five feet away from this tree. It should be irrigated for about 45 minutes once a week when using most in-line drip irrigation systems.

 

Plant Type

Tree

Height Range

60-100'

Flower Color

Green, Yellow

Flower Season

Winter, Spring

Leaf Color

Green

Bark Color

Brown

Fruit Color

Purple

Fruit Season

Summer

Leaf Season

Evergreen

Sun

Full, Half, Shade

Water

Medium

Growth Rate

Slow

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Loam

Soil Condition

Average, Rich, Well-drained

Soil pH

Neutral, Basic

Adverse Factors

Allergenic, Messy

Design Styles

Mediterranean, Ranch, Seascape, Spanish

Accenting Features

Fragrance, Multi-trunk Tree, Specimen

Seasonal Interest

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Location Uses

Background, Park

Special Uses

Screen, Shade Tree

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

Water Saving Tip:

Water between sunset and sunrise when temperatures and wind are the lowest.