Umbellularia californica  (Hook. & Arn.) Nutt. – California bay tree ;  California olive  - Lauraceae

The California bay tree, Umbellularia californica, is sacred to the Kashaya Pomo Indians of California.   Its leaves are rubbed on a hunter’s body before hunting to ensure his success.  They are burned in a house to prevent bad luck and the smoke is waved over people as a blessing when they leave.¹⁴  The leaves, though much stronger than the European bay, Laurus nobilis, add flavor to soups and stews.

This evergreen tree with cherry-sized seeds nearly two inches (5 cm.) in diameter, grows in the canyons and valleys of the Sierra Madre.  Several California tribes ate the roasted or parched seeds.

BACK	TOP	FWD