Cinnamomum camphora aka Camphor Laurel

Cinnamomum camphora is the camphor tree, an evergreen in the laurel family. Its native range includes Japan, Taiwan, and Korea's Jeju Island. It grows fast and forms a broad, rounded crown. Garden trees reach 40–60 feet [12–18 m] tall. Their spread can reach 50–70 feet [15–21 m]. Some sources report trees reaching 100–131 feet [30–40 m]. Its dense crown casts deep shade throughout the year.

Young stems are green, then turn reddish brown. Older bark becomes dark grey-brown, with scales and deep grooves. Wet bark can look almost black. The simple leaves grow in an alternate pattern. They are oval, with smooth edges that may look wavy. Their dark green tops shine; the undersides look duller. Crushing leaves or twigs releases the scent of camphor. New leaves may have a bronze tint.

Small, scented flowers appear in spring on loose panicles. Their shades range from greenish white to pale yellow. They add little colour to the tree's broad crown. Round, fleshy drupes follow, turning dark blue or black. Birds eat the fruit and spread its seeds. Fallen fruit and leaves make litter on paths and drives. The fruit can also stain cars. Seedlings can grow beneath trees or far from them.

The tree grows in sun or light shade. It accepts clay, loam, or sand with good drainage. It tolerates acid soil and slightly alkaline soil. Alkaline ground may cause shortages of some nutrients. It withstands drought but does not tolerate waterlogged soil. Sources place it in USDA zones 9–11. It suits parks and large grounds as shade or screening. It also tolerates city conditions, but needs ample root space. Large roots near the surface can cause problems. Pruning helps build a sound branch frame. Deep shade can make lawn growth beneath it difficult.

Camphor tree has become invasive in Florida and Australia. It can crowd out native plants where it spreads. Most pests and diseases cause few problems. Scales, mites, laurel wilt, and Verticillium wilt remain risks. Poor drainage can lead to root rot. People use its wood for furniture and extract camphor from it. Leaves and twigs also supply camphor for oils and other products. Reports describe cooked young leaves and shoots as food. Older dried leaves have served as a spice. These uses need caution: large amounts are poisonous. Swallowed camphor oil can cause breathing failure in children. The oil and wood can irritate skin and eyes.