Torreya californica California nutmeg (Cephalotaxaceae) Evergreen tree

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Torreya californica
California nutmeg
Evergreen tree
(1 Page of 5)

The Torreya californica plant species is found in Southwestern N. America - California. It is a member of the Cephalotaxaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as California nutmeg. Some home gardeners know the variety as T. myristica. Tumion californicum.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Torreya californica
Common Name:  California nutmeg
Family:  Cephalotaxaceae
Author:  Torr.

Known Hazards:  None known

Mature Height:  15   Mature Width:  8

Habitat:  Borders of mountain streams, cool shady slopes and canyons, 900 - 1400 metres[71, 82].

Propagation Notes: Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame. Some of the seed should germinate in the following spring though much of it might take another 12 months. Stored seed requires a period of cold stratification and can take 18 months or more to germinate. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots as soon as growth is observed and grow them on in light shade in the greenhouse for at least the next couple of winters, making sure to pot them on into larger pots as and when required. Plant them out into their permanent positions in early summer when the plants are at least 20cm tall. Cuttings of half-ripe shoots in late summer[1]. Cuttings do not grow well[11]. Layering.

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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