Taxonomy

Division:

Coniferophyta | - Conifers

Family:

Taxaceae

Genus:

Torreya

Species:

Torreya californica

USDA Symbol:

TOCA

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Tree

Height:

2500 cm

Light Requirements:

Shade

Drought Tolerance:

Medium

Food Forest:

Contains edible parts

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, small mammals

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

rich, well-drained loamy soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

consistently moist

Notes:

prefers shaded areas in native habitat

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 60–90 days

Germination Time:

30–90 days

Notes:

Seeds require cold stratification for 2-3 months; germination is often slow and erratic.

Where to Buy

Nationwide Seller

• Sheffield's Seed (seeds)