a Pacific coast shrub or tree (Umbellularia californica) of the laurel family, having aromatic evergreen leaves and hard wood; Oregon myrtle: a source of bay leaves
See California laurel in American Heritage Dictionary 4
noun
An aromatic evergreen tree (Umbellularia californica) native to California and southern Oregon and having clusters of small yellowish-green flowers, olivelike yellowish-green to purple fruits, and light brown wood valued for use in fine woodwork. Also called California bay, Oregon myrtle.