Laurel-sumac
Malosma laurina
Last reviewed: June 2026
Malosma laurina is a drought-tolerant evergreen shrub native to California that blooms with small white flowers from April through June. This laurel-sumac attracts bees and butterflies while requiring minimal water once established.
Laurel-sumac (Malosma laurina) 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.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
120"–240" H × 120"–240" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
CA
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Laurel-sumac is a large evergreen shrub with glossy green leaves and clusters of small white flowers in late spring. It can grow quite large, reaching up to 20 feet tall and wide, and maintains an attractive rounded form. This drought-tolerant plant has a distinctive fragrance when its leaves are crushed.
Growing Laurel-sumac
Grow Laurel-sumac in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 120 to 240 inches tall and spread 120 to 240 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Laurel-sumac is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: backyard only, mid zone.
- Very large size may overwhelm front yards
- May be perceived as fire-prone in some communities
- Natural growth habit can look unruly without occasional pruning
Wildlife value
Laurel-sumac provides important habitat and food for local wildlife. Its spring flowers attract numerous native bees and butterflies, while birds may use the dense foliage for nesting sites.
Common questions
- When does Malosma laurina bloom?
- Malosma laurina blooms from April through June, producing small clusters of white flowers that attract pollinators.
- What pollinators visit laurel-sumac?
- Bees and butterflies are the primary pollinators of Malosma laurina, drawn to its spring and early summer blooms.
- How much water does Malosma laurina need?
- Laurel-sumac is highly drought-tolerant and requires low water once established, making it ideal for water-wise gardens in California.
- Is Laurel-sumac toxic to dogs?
- Laurel-sumac is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Laurel-sumac toxic to cats?
- Laurel-sumac is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Laurel-sumac HOA-friendly?
- Laurel-sumac is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low 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 Laurel-sumac? 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