Cinnamomum camphora
Camphor Tree
The Cinnamomum camphora, or Camphor Tree, is a large, evergreen tree native to East Asia, known for its glossy, aromatic leaves, spreading canopy, and historical significance. Growing up to 20 to 30 metres tall, it features leathery, oval-shaped leaves with a glossy green upper surface and paler underside. In spring, small clusters of yellow-green flowers appear, followed by black, berry-like fruit. The tree's bark and leaves produce camphor oil, valued for its medicinal and aromatic properties.
This hardy and long-lived tree is a popular choice for ornamental planting in parks, large gardens, and avenue plantings.
Specifications
- Height20 to 30 metres
- Width15 to 20 metres
- Native toEast Asia (China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam)
- FoliageGlossy, aromatic green leaves with a leathery texture; evergreen
- Growth rateModerate to fast
Conditions
- SoilPrefers well-drained, fertile soils; tolerates a wide range of soil types
- LightFull sun to partial shade
- WaterModerate; drought-tolerant once established
- ClimateThrives in subtropical, tropical, and warm temperate regions
Additional Features
- FlowersSmall yellow-green clusters in spring, followed by black, berry-like fruit
- UsesIdeal for ornamental planting, shade trees, and avenue plantings in large landscapes
- SpacingPlant 10 to 15 metres apart for individual or grouped plantings
- Low MaintenanceRequires minimal care; prune to shape or remove deadwood if necessary
- Pest ResistanceGenerally resilient, but monitor for pests in non-native regions
- Environmental ImpactWidely planted for its shade and beauty, but can be invasive in some regions
- Aromatic BenefitsProduces camphor oil, historically used in medicine and perfumery
- LongevityExtremely long-lived, often thriving for centuries
The Camphor Tree is a resilient and majestic tree, perfect for creating shade and structure in large landscapes, but it should be planted with care due to its potential invasiveness in non-native areas.