Umbellularia californica - California Bay Laurel

Description

This statuesque tree of the Pacific Coast's lower mountains may reach as much as 100 feet in height and breadth. However it is a slow grower and can be kept to a size more useful to most gardeners. It is prized it for its dark green, aromatic foliage and light grey bark. It grows well in either shade or sun and, though drought tolerant, appreciates occasional watering. The leaves of the Bay Laurel can be used for cooking and its light colored tight grained wood is used for turning. Early Californians used to tuck the leaves into their hats to repel vermin and cure headaches.