Umbellularia californica var. fresnensis [blue leaves]

This blue-leaved form of the California bay has some distinctive features. A large growing, broad-leaved evergreen, these can reach to 30-40 feet or more, often with weeping foliage, the leathery leaves undercoated with soft, light-colored pubescence, making them particularly attractive and lighter in appearance than typical. Leaves are aromatic, as usual, and useful in cooking, a bit stronger than true bay leaves from Laurus nobilis. Small yellowish flowers are produced in spring followed by a round, green berry that matures purple. Full sun for the best pyramidal form, good drainage, and little summer water once established. Frost hardy to 0F, USDA zone 7.

CALIFORNIA BAY

Lauraceae