California-laurel
Umbellularia californica
Last reviewed: July 2026
Umbellularia californica is an evergreen tree native to California and Oregon that blooms yellow-green flowers from March through May. This drought-tolerant species attracts bees and beetles while thriving in various light conditions.
California-laurel (Umbellularia californica) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
California-laurel is listed as toxic to grazing livestock (cattle, sheep, and goats) at a slight level by the USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab). This is a livestock indicator and is separate from pet toxicity.
Light
part sun
Water
low
Size
240"–600" H × 240"–480" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
CA, OR
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
California-laurel is a stately evergreen tree with aromatic, leathery leaves and small yellowish flowers in spring. It grows slowly at first but can reach impressive heights of 20-50 feet with a broad canopy. It adapts well to garden settings with minimal water once established.
Growing California-laurel
Grow California-laurel in part sun and low water. Mature plants reach 240 to 600 inches tall and spread 240 to 480 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
California-laurel is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: street edge, mid zone.
- Very large at maturity - needs adequate space
- Leaf litter can be substantial
- Slow initial growth may not provide immediate landscape impact
Wildlife value
The spring flowers attract bees and beetles for pollination. The fruits provide food for various bird species and small mammals.
Common questions
- What regions is Umbellularia californica native to?
- California-laurel is native to California and Oregon, where it naturally occurs in coastal and inland mountain regions.
- When does Umbellularia californica bloom?
- California-laurel produces its yellow-green flower clusters from March through May, typically peaking in early spring.
- What pollinators visit California-laurel flowers?
- Umbellularia californica attracts various bees and beetles that feed on its nectar and help pollinate the small clustered flowers.
- How much water does California-laurel need?
- This native tree is drought-tolerant once established, requiring low to moderate water and adapting well to Mediterranean climates with dry summers.
- Is California-laurel toxic to dogs?
- California-laurel is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is California-laurel toxic to cats?
- California-laurel is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is California-laurel toxic to livestock?
- California-laurel is listed as toxic to grazing livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats (slight severity) by the USDA PLANTS Database. This is separate from pet (dog and cat) toxicity.
- Is California-laurel HOA-friendly?
- California-laurel is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow California-laurel? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz