Umbellularia californica California laurel (Lauraceae) Evergreen tree

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Umbellularia californica
California laurel
Evergreen tree
(1 Page of 5)

The Umbellularia californica plant species is found in Southwestern N. America - California to Oregon. It is a member of the Lauraceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as California laurel. Some home gardeners know the variety as Laurus regalis. L. regia. Oreodaphne californica. Tetranthera californica.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Umbellularia californica
Common Name:  California laurel
Family:  Lauraceae
Author:  (Hook.&Arn.)Nutt.

Known Hazards:  The foliage can cause skin irritations[1, 11]. A volatile oil in the leaves can cause sneezing and headaches if inhaled[11].

Mature Height:  25   Mature Width:  10

Habitat:  Lower mountain slopes, flatlands, hillsides etc, on various soils and often in shade[62, 94]. The best specimens are found in deep rich soils of valley bottoms[229].

Propagation Notes: Seed - it has a limited viability and is best sown as soon as it is ripe in the autumn in a greenhouse[200]. Stored seed should be sown as early in the year as possible in the greenhouse. In the wild the seed germinates as soon as it falls to the ground in the autumn[82]. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Cuttings ot half-ripe wood, 7 - 10cm with a heel, July/August in a shaded frame. Pot up in spring. Good percentage[78, 200]. 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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