Laurel Sumac
Malosma laurina
Also listed as Rhus laurina, Lithraea laurina
Climate Match for your location
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A California native evergreen shrub with aromatic, laurel-like foliage and small white to pink flowers in spring. Extremely drought-tolerant once established and well-suited to coastal and inland gardens.
Why grow it
Laurel sumac offers a native alternative to non-native evergreen shrubs in fire-prone California regions, combining ornamental appeal with minimal water needs once established. Unlike many drought-tolerant coastal shrubs, it tolerates both coastal salt spray and inland heat, making it versatile across diverse microclimates. Its aromatic foliage and spring flowers provide seasonal interest without requiring fertilizer or frequent pruning typical of less drought-adapted ornamentals.
Watch out for
Establishment requires consistent moisture during the first growing season despite eventual drought tolerance, so young plants benefit from mulching and occasional deep watering. In gardens with poor drainage or high humidity, root rot can develop, particularly in clay-heavy soils without amendment. The plant may be slow-growing in the first few years before accelerating, so patience is needed to assess its mature form and size.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Anacardiaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
California native
Native to: California
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A California native evergreen shrub with aromatic, laurel-like foliage and small white to pink flowers in spring. Extremely drought-tolerant once established and well-suited to coastal and inland gardens.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Laurel Sumac grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Laurel sumac offers a native alternative to non-native evergreen shrubs in fire-prone California regions, combining ornamental appeal with minimal water needs once established. Unlike many drought-tolerant coastal shrubs, it tolerates both coastal salt spray and inland heat, making it versatile across diverse microclimates. Its aromatic foliage and spring flowers provide seasonal interest without requiring fertilizer or frequent pruning typical of less drought-adapted ornamentals.
Watch out for
Establishment requires consistent moisture during the first growing season despite eventual drought tolerance, so young plants benefit from mulching and occasional deep watering. In gardens with poor drainage or high humidity, root rot can develop, particularly in clay-heavy soils without amendment. The plant may be slow-growing in the first few years before accelerating, so patience is needed to assess its mature form and size.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Anacardiaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
California native
Native to: California
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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