California Nutmeg
Torreya californica
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Pl. B752 — Torreya californica
Torreya californicaTorreya californicaTorreya californicaTorreya californicaTorreya californicaTorreya californicaTorreya californicaTorreya californicaTorreya californicaTorreya californicaTorreya californicaTorreya californicaTorreya californicaTorreya californica
IOverview
Overview
California Nutmeg, scientifically known as Torreya californica, is a tree native to California and thrives in habitats ranging from full sun to partial shade with moist soil. This plant can grow up to 15 meters tall and is notable for its edible seeds, which are the only part of the plant that is safe and suitable for human consumption. Its adaptability to various soil types—light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay)—and its ability to tolerate partial shade make it a versatile addition to gardens or natural landscapes. One distinctive feature of California Nutmeg is its conical shape when mature, setting it apart from other trees in the area.
Quick answers
What is California Nutmeg?
California Nutmeg, scientifically known as Torreya californica, is a tree native to California and thrives in habitats ranging from full sun to partial shade with moist soil.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
California Nutmeg thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 6-9 and grows up to 15 meters tall. Propagate through seeds for new plants. Ensure the growing conditions mimic its native California habitat for best results.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Habit
Tree
Mature size
15.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow California Nutmeg for the first time
8steps
Start with planting California Nutmeg in a sunny to partially shaded spot, and you'll be on your way to a rewarding gardening experience.
- 1
What you'll need
California Nutmeg seedlings or seeds, potting mix if container growing.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining; use a mix of light sand, medium loam, and heavy clay if needed. For containers, choose a pot at least 30 cm wide.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start them indoors 8-10 weeks before planting outside. Transplant carefully to avoid damaging roots.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist and provide light shade if direct sun is intense.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Fertilize lightly in spring with compost or a balanced organic fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune to maintain shape and remove dead branches as needed; seeds can be harvested when ripe.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, neglecting regular watering during dry periods, not providing enough shade, and improper pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: Oil
Other uses:Weaving materialoilLumberFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 1 native
Broader regions
native:California
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · b752f922-f507-449e-9d0c-c0b5dff7c925
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