| Presidio Park Plant Survey |
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Encyclopedia | Parish Rye - 2018 Survey | A Historical Reference | Historic Surveys |
Malosma laurina LAUREL SUMAC
A common native to coastal north Baja and Southern California, this drought tolerant and hardy species is able to withstand cool temperatures and extreme heat. Malosma laurina produces a growth of small white flowers that is attractive to bees. Although very heat resistant it does not tolerate a hard frost well and has served as a sentinel species. This is why early California citrus growers would plant orange trees on slopes and hills where Malosma laurina was growing as this indicated areas where temperatures were milder during winter cold snaps. The unique shape of its leaves which are elongated and folded upwards has given rise to another common name for Malosma laurina: the taco plant. |
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