Umbellularia californica (Myrtaceae)

Also known as: myrtle, baytree, bay laurel, Californian laurel, mountain laurel, Oregon myrtle, Pacific myrtle, Californian olive, pepperwood, spice tree

Description:
The pale brown sapwood is thick and not clearly demarcated from the heartwood, which is a rich golden-brown to yellowish-green. The grain in usually straight but frequently wavy or irregular, and is close, compact and smooth. The wood has a medium and firm texture, conspicuous medullar rays and a medium luster. It sometimes displays interesting and attractive figure.

Properties:
Acacia is heavy, hard-wearing and resilient. Strength ratings are not really relevant for the uses to which the wood is put. It can be a difficult wood to work and has a rapid blunting effect on cutting edges. A reduced cutting angle is recommended for planning and moulding. It glues, bores nails and screws well, and polishes very well. Myrtle is prized by wood turners for its excellent turning properties.

Durability:
It is not very durable, with a low natural resistance to decay, and is attacked by powder-post beetles. Sap-stain infestation can also be a problem.

Sources:
Oregon and California, USA