Quick answer: California bay laurel (Umbellularia californica) is native to 3 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. No live listing of the true species was found as of 15 Sep 2026.
Photo: Dcrjsr, Wikimedia Commons (CC-BY-4.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Part Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Moist |
| Soil | Moist soils, tolerates serpentine |
| Bloom | Jan-May, Dec |
| Height | Typically 20-45 ft, rarely to 150 ft |
| Wildlife value | wildlife use not specified |
Buying it
No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 15 Sep 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.
No live seed or plant listing found as of 15 Sep 2026. That means our last search didn't surface one — not that the plant is unavailable. Try a regional native-plant nursery.
Quick answers about California bay laurel
Where is California bay laurel native?
California bay laurel (Umbellularia californica) is native to California, Oregon and Washington. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does California bay laurel bloom?
California bay laurel blooms Jan-May, Dec. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does California bay laurel need?
Light: Part Shade. Water: Moist. Soil: Moist soils, tolerates serpentine. Mature height: Typically 20-45 ft, rarely to 150 ft.
Is California bay laurel good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: wildlife use not specified.
Is California bay laurel deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
California bay laurel is tolerates shade.
Where can I buy California bay laurel?
We haven't found an online listing of the true wild species as of 15 Sep 2026. A regional native-plant nursery or native seed company is your best source; ask for Umbellularia californica by its scientific name.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with California bay laurel.
- Western azalea Rhododendron occidentale
- Douglas iris Iris douglasiana
- Tall Oregon grape Mahonia aquifolium
- Bigleaf maple Acer macrophyllum
- Pacific madrone Arbutus menziesii
- Henderson's shooting star Dodecatheon hendersonii
Also listed under
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