On 5/10/2009 3:03 PM, scorpster wrote:
We have this tree on our property and would appreciate help to identify what
kind this is. I looked in the books and couldn't figure it out:

http://www.statuaryplace.com/images/unknowntree01.jpg
http://www.statuaryplace.com/images/unknowntree02.jpg


The long leaf buds and the shiny leaves with smooth edges make me think
of some kind of ficus (although some have fuzzy or lobed leaves). I
would cut a small branch and take it to a local nursery for
identification. When you ask, let them know whether it goes dormant
(even very briefly) in the winter, which will help the identification.

As an alternative to a nursery, you might visit a nearby community
college that has a botany department or even UCI or UCR.

--
David E. Ross
Climate: California Mediterranean
Sunset Zone: 21 -- interior Santa Monica Mountains with some ocean
influence (USDA 10a, very close to Sunset Zone 19)
Gardening diary at http://www.rossde.com/garden/diary