Oregon Myrtle (Umbellularia Californica) is the only member of the umbellularia genus and grows along the pacific coast of the U.S. from Southern Oregon to San Diego, California.

The color of the wood can range from light tan to medium brown and has dark streaks through it. It is an evergreen that can grow to heights between 90 and 130 feet. It is also known as the California Bay Laurel, California Bay, California Laurel, Pepperwood and Headache Tree. The leaf is shaped like a bay leaf and is used by some in the same manner.

Minerals which are drawn up from the soil color the wood. The stress during the growth of the tree causes the figures in the wood. Many grain patterns appear in myrtle: burls, tiger-stripe, fiddleback, quilt, inkline, and flame grain.

Myrtlewood is a favorite of turners of bowls and other small turned items.