What about the California Laurel tree?

[Anonymous]

I am possibly interested in obtaining 1 or 2 Umbellularia californica trees. Where can I find these? Does anyone have any experience with them that can tell me about their characteristics? I need to plant tall trees next to my lawn in my yard. Are they messy? How long do you think they will take to grow a height of 40ft? Are the leaves poisonous?</p>

[Anonymous]

California Laurel is fine in its natural setting, but it has some disadvantages as a garden tree. For a long time it's more like a large rather shapeless shrub than a tree; once it gets tall it begins to lean over in a disconcerting way. You then cut it back and it reprouts with remarkable speed.

What part of California do you live in?</p>

[Anonymous]

Thanks Joe for your message. I live in Santa Monica, CA. southern Calif., about 7 miles inland from the beach. Is umbellularia native here? Your description of the tree does not sound as attractive as I was hoping for although no one seems particularly impressed by its form or appeal. When you referred to the disconcerting leaning of the tree at a tall height -- is this its natural tendency? What do you think is the best landscaping use of this tree? Thanks so much for your comments. laura</p>

[Anonymous]

Oops, I forgot to put my name and email address on the post above this one.</p>

[Anonymous]

Thanks Joe-I'm getting the picture of Bay Laurels. You're right--I didn't know they compete. How much room do I need to set aside for the laurel's roots. Also, do you know anything about the characteristics of the Palo Verde tree? How much planting space would I need for its roots? I'm trying to plan a native landscape for my house.thanks so much! laura</p>

[Anonymous]

The T. Payne Foundation nursery carries these and many other native plants.

I've planted several gallons, most to be shrubs, one to grow into a tree. So far they're doing fine. After a year one has grown to 2'.

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[EarthMonkey]

I think Bay trees are beautiful and they bend over if blocked from the sun but also can grow quite straight. They often have a low base trunk with branches seperating by five or so feet. They grow about a foot a year so it will take a while to reach 40 ft. They grow in relatively moist soils. A fast growing native tree that grows in similar soil is the big leafed maple. A buckeye also likes moister areas and grows faster. The mountain mahogany also grows fast in moist soil. I planted one shrub at my house about two years ago and it is about three feet now. I also dumped seeds in an open spot and they all sprouted, they are about a foot now.