Umbellularia californica Pollinator along with bees and butterflies

along with bees and butterflies drawn to the late nectar

Native to the eastern and midwestern United States

The flowers are pure Cornus florida: four creamy white bracts cupped around a knot of small true flowers

The tuberous root has been a staple of traditional Chinese medicine since the Song dynasty

good fresh or in jams

Umbellularia californica Pollinator along with bees and butterfliesCalifornia Laurel or Myrtlewood is a medium size dense evergreen tree with glossy leaves and rounded habit of growth. The leaves have a strong pungent odor when bruised. Grown as an ornamental tree in Oregon and northern California. The beautiful wood is valued for fine woodworking and is sold in many places in southwestern Oregon. Little known in the southern U. S. but well worth trying here.