There is some confusion about the merits of the Bay Tree of Europe v. Umbellularia californica, variously called Bay Laurel, California Bay Tree, even Myrtle or Myrtlewood.

Actually, the California Bay is stronger flavored when used in cooking and contains more oils. It was used by many Indian groups for medicine and does repel many species of insects.

Breedlove Guitars has been known to use it for a "tone wood". It is usually moderate sized tree when found on dry hillsides, but can get to 40-50 feet if growing in rich soil with sufficient water.