California Laurel
Umbellularia californicafam. Laurelaceae
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Pl. 93ED — Umbellularia californica
Umbellularia californicaUmbellularia californicaUmbellularia californicaUmbellularia californicaUmbellularia californicaUmbellularia californicaUmbellularia californicaUmbellularia californicaUmbellularia californicaUmbellularia californicaUmbellularia californicaUmbellularia californicaUmbellularia californicaUmbellularia californica
IOverview
Overview
California Laurel (Umbellularia californica) is a tree or shrub native to the coastal regions of California and Oregon, as well as parts of Mexico's Northwest. This plant thrives in moist environments with light requirements ranging from full sun to partial shade. It prefers soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) and has an optimal pH range of 5.7–7.4. Known for its edible fruit and seeds, California Laurel can grow up to 25 meters tall. Its distinctive feature includes aromatic leaves with a spicy scent when crushed, which contribute to its ornamental value in gardens.
Quick answers
What is California Laurel?
California Laurel (Umbellularia californica) is a tree or shrub native to the coastal regions of California and Oregon, as well as parts of Mexico's Northwest. This plant thrives in moist environments with light requirements ranging from full sun to partial shade.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
California Laurel thrives in full sun and prefers moist but well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 7-10 and grows to a height of 25 meters as a tree or shrub. Propagate via seed or cuttings. The fruit and seeds are edible parts of the plant. Soil pH should range between 5.7 and 7.4 for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-10
Habit
Tree, Shrub
Mature size
25.0 m tall
Soil pH
5.7–7.4
For first-time growers
How to grow California Laurel for the first time
8steps
Start with planting California Laurel in a sunny spot and follow these steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
A California Laurel sapling, garden gloves, a trowel, and water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or fall when the weather is cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil drains well; amend with compost if necessary. For containers, use a pot at least 15 liters (4 gallons) large.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling carefully, keeping the root ball intact. Plant it in a hole slightly larger than its root system.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy. Monitor for signs of stress and adjust watering accordingly.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide regular water, especially during dry spells. Fertilize once a year in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune lightly to shape the tree or remove dead branches. Harvest fruit when ripe and seeds can be collected after fruit falls.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, not providing enough sunlight, and neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitSeed
Edible uses: Coffee, Condiment
Other uses:DyeEssential OilFragranceLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
3 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 3 native
Broader regions
native:Mexico Northwest, Oregon, California
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 93ed6585-4b79-45a8-8a3b-a89ae4f4b1d8
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