Bay Laurel, California

[edit] Plant Name and Description

Latin: Umbellularia californica

Synonym: California Bay, Oregon Myrtle, Pepperwood

Family: Laurel

In the wild, the California Bay will grow into a dense shrub or a 75’-100’ tall and wide tree. It bears leathery, deep yellow-green, 2”-5” long leaves that are pointed at both ends. The leaves are highly aromatic when crushed. (Full description)

[edit] Landscape Type

Evergreen tree or shrub

[edit] Food

Bay Laurel Nuts

Bay Nut Chocolate Clusters

[edit] Medicinal Use

Headaches

Disinfectant

Poison Oak

Rheumatism and Sore Muscles

[edit] Crafts

[edit] Habitat

Below 5,000 feet on hillsides, near streams, upper foothill and mixed conifer belts, and moist canyons.

[edit] Collection Season

All: Leaf; Nut-like

Fruit: Fall (purplish-brown in color when ripe)