The leaf of the California bay tree ( Umbellularia californica ) , also known as ` California laurel ' , ` Oregon myrtle ' , and ` pepperwood ' , is similar to the Mediterranean bay but has a stronger flavor . The leaf of the California bay tree ( Umbellularia californica ) , also known as ` California laurel ' , ` Oregon myrtle ' , and ` pepperwood ' , is similar to the Mediterranean bay , but has a stronger flavor .