| Umbellularia | |
|---|---|
| |
| Foliage and flowers | |
Scientific classification 
| |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Magnoliids |
| Order: | Laurales |
| Family: | Lauraceae |
| Genus: | Umbellularia (C.G.D.Nees) Nuttall |
| Species: | U. californica
|
| Binomial name | |
| Umbellularia californica | |
| |
| Natural range | |
| Synonyms | |
|
Sciadiodaphne Rchb. | |
Umbellularia californica is a large hardwood tree native to coastal forests and the Sierra foothills of California, and to coastal forests extending into Oregon.[2] It is the sole species in the genus Umbellularia. The tree's pungent leaves have a similar flavor to bay leaves, though stronger, and it may be mistaken for bay laurel.
The tree is endemic to the California Floristic Province. It is a host of the pathogen that causes sudden oak death. The dry wood has a color range from blonde (like maple) to brown (like walnut). It is considered an excellent tonewood and is sought after by luthiers and woodworkers.
- ^ Stritch, L. (2018). "Umbellularia californica". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2018: e.T62572A68077480. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2018-2.RLTS.T62572A68077480.en. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
- ^ "Umbellularia californica (Hook. & Arn.) Nutt". CalFlora. Retrieved 2012-02-05.