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California Native Plant

Malosma laurina

Laurel Sumac

Plant photo of: Malosma laurina
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Information by: Jerry Sortomme Editor        Photographer: El Nativo Growers, Inc.

 

Description

Laurel Sumac Malosma laurina one of the predominant evergreen shrubs populating the hillsides of coastal Southern California. It grows quickly and strong, forming a rounded shape, but may die back from a cold frost. Leaves on this plant are up to 6 inches long, leathery, folded and curved back which starting out red then turning to a bright green. Frequently the red color remains in the mature leaf's edges. Stems also start out red, then turn reddish-brown then sometimes gray as the plant matures. Flowering occurs in early summer primarily, with the terminal clusters of small cream-colored flowers quickly giving way to red berries with white seeds. The flower clusters persist on the plant well after the flowers and berries are spent.

 

Plant Type

Tree, Shrub

Height Range

6-12', 12-25'

Flower Color

White

Flower Season

Spring

Leaf Color

Green, Dark Green

Bark Color

n/a

Fruit Color

n/a

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Full

Water

Low, Extra in Summer

Growth Rate

Fast, Moderate

Soil Type

Sandy, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular

Soil Condition

Average, Well-drained, Dry

Soil pH

Neutral

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

Ranch, Wild Garden

Accenting Features

n/a

Seasonal Interest

n/a

Location Uses

Background

Special Uses

Naturalizing

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

Water Saving Tip:

Water between sunset and sunrise when temperatures and wind are the lowest.