Umbellularia californica

California Bay Laurel

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Evergreen tree native to western North America, known for aromatic leaves and tolerance of coastal fog. Leaves are lanceolate with a strong peppery scent when crushed.
yard Outdoor plants wb_sunny Half-shade pets Not pet-safe
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Plant Details

Common Name California Bay Laurel
Family Lauraceae
Genus Umbellularia
Species California
Origin Western North America
Blooming Small yellow-green flowers in early spring, followed by drupes.
Leaf Color Dark green to glossy emerald
Sunlight Half-shade
Category Outdoor plants
Pet Friendly close No
yard

Care & Maintenance

terrain
Soil

Well-draining loamy soil, slightly acidic to neutral pH.

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Watering

Deep watering when top inch dry. Drought tolerant once established, but prefers consistent moisture young plants. Reduce in winter.

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Sunlight & Care

Full sun outdoors; bright indirect light indoors. Acclimatize slowly to prevent leaf scorch.

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Fertilization

Balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season (Spring-Sept).

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Pruning

Prune to shape or control height; harvest leaves for seasoning.

Pest Control Aphid Leaf Miner Scale Insect Spider Mite

These are the insects and pathogens that commonly interact with this plant, including pests, parasites, and organisms typically associated with its care.

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Seasonal Periods

local_florist Flowering Period 3 months
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
eco Leaf Persistence 12 months
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
thermostat

Growing Parameters

thermostat
Temperature
50° – 95°
Fahrenheit
Ideal ambient air temperature range for healthy growth
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Humidity
40% – 80%
% relative
Optimal relative air humidity the plant thrives in
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Light (LUX)
800 – 25000
Lux
Ambient illuminance level at the plant's surface
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Light (PAR)
1500 – 3000
mmol/m²/s
Photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) intensity
water
Soil Moisture
25% – 60%
% volumetric
Water content in the growing medium
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Soil EC
300 – 1500
mS/cm
Electrical conductivity (nutrient concentration in soil water)

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