It is prized for its durability, color, and striking grain pattern.
In fact, contact with California bay leaves may cause skin irritation.
Place the tree in the hole with the prettiest side facing the front of the viewing area.
Credit: Peter Krumhardt
Fill in the hole with equal parts compost and native dirt.
Tamp the soil down to remove air pockets and water the tree deeply.
If you are planting multiple trees, place them at least 20 feet apart.
Credit: Peter Krumhardt
In fact, in the right conditions, they can grow as big as 70 feet tall and wide.
They also provide a welcome habitat and food source for birds and other wildlife.
Light
California bay laurel grows best in full sun to partial shade.
Credit: Peter Krumhardt
When planted in full sun and watered regularly, it can grow as much as 4 feet each year.
It will grow more slowly in partial shade, but it is nonetheless a lovely plant.
Drought conditions, however, may cause the tree to die back.
New seedlings require moist soil to grow, so regular watering may be necessary.
They can, however, tolerate temperatures as low as -13 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 118 degrees.
The California bay laurel is also no stranger to humidity and grows comfortably in cool, humid maritime climates.
Credit: Peter Krumhardt
While you are at it, keep an eye out for white-mottled rot, honey fungus, and anthracnose.
Whether you are planting or storing your seeds, its wise to crack their nutlike surface to ease germination.
Add some potting mix and place the bag in a refrigerator for 3 to 4 months.
This will mimic the winter period needed for stratification.
As needed, repot your growing California bay laurel into increasingly larger containers.
Snip an 8- to 10-inch-long section from the tree and remove all but the top few leaves.
Put the treated cutting into the hole and press to remove air pockets in the sand.
Cover the pot in a sealed plastic bag and set it in a bright, warm location.
After about a month, check to see if your cutting has anchored itself in the sand.
Types of California Bay Laurel
Umbellularia californica var.
TheUmbellulariagenus contains one widely known species,Umbellularia californicavar.californica.
Zones 7-9
Umbellularia californica var.
pendula
Another rare California laurel variety isUmbellularia californicavar.pendula, which features more pendulous branches and stems.
The low-maintenance shrub is useful as an accent plant, foundation plant, or shrub border.
Once established, it is low maintenance and requires little pruning.
It is also a favorite for Christmas trees and holiday decorating.
Frequently Asked Questions
No.
The leaves of the California bay laurel have more potent chemical properties and the USDA advises against culinary use.
If kept healthy, this tree can live for 200 years or more.
July 24, 2024.
Accessed August 2, 2024. https://www.suddenoakdeath.org/.
