California Bay

This N American genus consists of a single species of evergreen tree. Umbellularia californica is a bay-like, shrubby tree, which needs a sheltered position in cold areas to prevent frost damage to new growths. It is generally found in canyon bottoms and flood plains, below 1500m (5000ft). The leaves are so pungently aromatic that inhaling their scent may cause a headache. The herb is nevertheless a traditional remedy for headaches, and may be taken as an infusion, or the leaves bound to the forehead for this purpose. Native Californians also used the leaves as insect repellents. Umbellularia is from the Latin umbella, "umbel" referring to the shape of the inflorescence.

Evergreen tree with dark green, flat, elliptic to oblong, glossy leaves, 10cm (4in) long, that have a strong, acrid aroma. Tiny, pale green flowers appear in umbels in spring, followed by pear-shaped, purple-brown fruits, 2.5cm (1in) long.

Common Name:	California Bay
Other Names:	California Laurel, California Pepper, Headache Tree.
Botanical Name:	Umbellularia californica
Genus:	Umbellularia
Family:	Lauraceae
Native Location:	Native to USA (S Oregon, N California)
Cultivation:	Well-drained soil in sun. May require winter protection when young.
Propagation:	By seed sown in autumn; by semi-ripe cuttings in summer.
Harvest:	Leaves are picked as required and used fresh, or dried whole for use in infusions.
Height:	18-25m (60-80ft)
Width:	12m (40ft)
Hardiness:	Z9-10
Parts Used:	Leaves
Properties:	A pungent, analgesic herb with a camphoraceous aroma.
Medicinal Uses:	Internally for headache, neuralgia, intestinal cramps, and gastroenteritis. Externally for headache, fainting, fungal infections, joint pains.
Culinary Uses:	Leaves may be used sparingly in soups, stews, and meat dishes as a substitute for bay leaves (Laurus nobile, See,Bay)
Economic Uses:	Lumber is an important hardwood. Oil is used to flavor candy, frozen desserts, chewing gum, and baked goods, and to scent pharmaceutical products, detergents, and perfumes.
Bibliography:	Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited Pg 397