Laurel Sumac
‘Ehwaall
‘Iipay Aa name: ‘ehwaall
Common name: laurel sumac
Scientific name: Malosma laurina
Laurel sumac, or ‘ehwaall in ‘Iipay Aa, is a large shrub that can grow to 20 feet tall and 20 feet wide. This shrub stays green year-round. The dark green leaves have a folded taco shell shape. When it is blooming in late spring and early summer it is very aromatic. The small, white flowers grow in clusters at the ends of twigs. Each flower produces a tiny berry. The shape of the leathery leaves provides cool areas that can accumulate moisture; most of the leaves point downward and direct moisture to the roots. The deep roots of the laurel sumac help it reach water during dry summer months.
Photo courtesy of Jonathan Coffin.
The flowers of the laurel sumac provide food for many pollinators, including native bees. Deer will browse the seedlings and fruit of this shrub. Many other mammals and many birds, including the California quail, eat the seeds and fruit of the laurel sumac.
Native Americans eat the raw berries of the laurel sumac after pounding them and drying them. They also use the root to make a medicinal tea.