Torreya californica - California Nutmeg

Description

This beautiful, uncommon conifer is found from the Santa Cruz Mountains north to Mendocino. The deep green, very sharp needles (the Ohlone used them for tattooing) contrast beautifully with pale gray bark. It generally grows in shaded canyons in the company of oak, fir, and bay. In your garden, partial sun to full shade is best, with the occasional deep watering in summer. Reaches about 50 feet with age - lots of age, so count on a lovely small tree for your lifetime.