 The flowers are in axillary umbellulate clusters of 6-10, yellow-green, without petals and with six oblong-ovate sepals in two series of three each. The umbels are enclosed in bracts fall off when the flower opens. |
California Bay Laurel Umbellularia californica A pungently aromatic evergreen tree or large shrub commonly found in somewhat moist shaded canyons and valleys below 5000'. It is scattered throughout the Transverse and Peninsular Ranges and blooms from December to May. California indians used the leaves as a flea repellant, and also to make a tea to treat headaches and stomach distress. The wood is hard and polishes well, making it useful for turned objects. It is also used as a flavor in cooking. The fruit is a round to ovoid drupe which is green at first and ages to dark purple with a light-brown smooth stone. Falls Canyon, Trabuco Canyon, Orange County, CA. 1-8-12. © Peter J. Bryant Back to Lauraceae of Orange County, California |
 There are nine stamens, six in an outer row, and three in an inner row with two stalked orange glands at their base. Each of the stamens carries four anther sacs. There are also three staminules (sterile anthers) which are not visible in the photos shown here. |
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 The leaves are entire, alternate, glabrous, oblong to oblong-lanceolate and slightly shiny on the upper surface, and they are up to 4" long and about an inch wide with an obtuse-acuminate tip. |
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 There are nine stamens, six in an outer row, and three in an inner row with two stalked orange glands at their base. Each of the stamens carries four anther sacs. |
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 Two of the outer stamens, each carrying four anther sacs. |
 Two of the outer stamens, each carrying four anther sacs. |
 One outer and one inner stamen, each carrying four anther sacs. |
 Ovary (superior) and stigma. |