Neolitsea sericea aka Japanese Silver Tree

Neolitsea sericea is an evergreen tree in the laurel family, Lauraceae. Its native range includes Zhejiang in China and southern Korea. It also grows in central and southern Japan and Taiwan. Kew places it in a subtropical climate zone. Plants For A Future records it in ravines, thickets, and woods. Those habitats lie in China, at heights of 984–4,265 feet [300–1,300 metres].

In gardens, this tree reaches about 20 feet [6 metres] tall. Its spread can also reach 20 feet [6 metres]. It keeps its leaves through the year. The leaves have a strong scent, adding interest beyond their appearance. Its year-round foliage suits a woodland garden or sunny woodland edge. Allow room for both its height and its broad spread. Choose a sheltered site rather than an exposed spot.

Flowers appear from September to October, according to Plants For A Future. Male and female flowers grow on separate trees. A single tree cannot set seed through self-fertilisation. Grow both sexes if you want the tree to produce seed. The same source lists seed ripening from January to February. It gives no further details about the flowers or fruit.

This tree grows in sun or light shade. It needs moist soil that drains well. Sandy, loamy, and clay soils can all suit it. The soil should be lime-free, with an acid to neutral pH. Plants For A Future lists USDA hardiness zones 8–11. In Britain, it recommends outdoor planting only in milder areas. Even there, a south- or west-facing wall offers a better site. Young plants may need cold protection for their first few winters. Keep seedlings in a greenhouse through at least their first winter. Plant them out in late spring or early summer, after frost risk. Cuttings offer another way to raise new plants. Take half-ripe wood in July or August, using a frame. Previous-season basal hardwood can also root in a frame in winter.

The seeds yield an edible oil, though the source rates food use low. This does not establish that whole seeds are edible. The oil also has uses in soap and as fuel. Plants For A Future lists no known medicinal use or hazards. That hazard statement does not confirm safety for people or pets. The supplied evidence names no specific pests or diseases.