Umbellularia californica

Umbellularia californica

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(California Laurel) Native to parts of South-western North America, Umbellularia californica is an evergreen shrub with long narrow, bright green, aromatic leaves.

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Perennial with flat purple-pink, flower heads in summer, popular with bees!
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Native to parts of South-western North America, Umbellularia californica is an evergreen shrub with long narrow, bright green, aromatic leaves. Numerous clusters of pretty yellowish-green flowers appear on the branches in late spring, followed by dark purple fruit later in the year on mature plants.

  • Position: Warm in full sun or partial shade.
  • Soil: Moist or well drained, fertile soil.
  • Hardiness: Reasonably hardy. Umbellularia californica requires shelter from cold winter winds.
  • Flowering Period: April - May
  • Flower Colour: Yellowish-green
  • Rate of Growth: Moderate.
  • Habit: Eventually a small tree with a dense, branching crown in the U.K.
    • Height: up to 10 m (32 ft).
    • Spread: 8 m (26 ft).
  • Notes: Umbellularia californica is also known as the 'headache tree', which is a reference to the effects of prolonged exposure to the aromatic vapours released when twigs or leaves are crushed.

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