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Torreya californica

Torreya californica Torr.

California Nutmeg, California-nutmeg

Taxaceae (Yew Family)

Synonym(s):

USDA Symbol: toca

USDA Native Status: L48 (N)

A small, understory tree, usually 15-50 ft. tall, that looks like a miniature yew or glossy-leaved redwood. The branches are slender and spreading and the narrow leaves are stiff and dark green. The tree bears green, nutmeg-like fruits with purple markings. Strongly aromatic tree with conical or rounded crown and rows of slender, spreading branches.

The name "California Nutmeg" refers to the resemblance of the aromatic seeds, with a deeply folded seed coat, to those of the unrelated commercial spice, nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.). "Stinking-cedar" alludes to the disagreeable resinous odor of crushed foliage and other parts. Native Americans used to make bows from the strong wood.