How to identify Camphor tree (Cinnamomum camphora)

How to identify Camphor tree (Cinnamomum camphora)

Camphor tree, also known as Majestic beauty camphor, Camphorwood

Camphor tree stands as a robust evergreen, reaching heights of over 50 feet (15 meters) with a dense, broad canopy. Its leathery leaves are ovate, glossy, and can be up to 4 inches (10 cm) long, exuding a characteristic aroma when crushed. The small white flowers give way to berry-like fruit, transitioning from green to black as they mature. The trunk boasts a grayish bark, providing a sturdy support for its widespread branches.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Tree

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Camphor tree

Leaves emit a fragrant aroma when crushed, shiny green above and dull beneath.

Distinctive bark texture changes from scaly to furrowed with age, forming ridged, flat-topped patterns.

Fruit transitions from green to purplish-black, enclosing a single seed within succulent flesh.

Small cream to pale yellow flowers cluster on 3-inch panicles, exuding a delicate fragrance.

Trunk develops a sturdy, ridged structure with bark varying in color from brown to yellow.

Detailed Traits of Camphor tree

Leaf Features

The leaves of camphor tree are thin, shiny, and dark green with entire but occasionally wavy margins. They are glossy on the upper side and dull on the underside. Elliptic to broadly ovate and simple in structure, they measure approximately 4 - 11 cm (1.6 - 4.3 inches) in length and 2 - 4.5 cm (0.8 - 1.8 inches) in width. Each leaf has 3 distinct yellow veins spreading from the base and emits a distinctive aroma when crushed. Young leaves are initially rusty dark red.

Leaf Arrangement

Alternate

Leaf Margin

Entire ,

Undulate

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Flower Features

The flowers of camphor tree are small, cream to pale yellow in color, forming on terminal panicle inflorescences about 3 inches (7.5 cm) long. Each flower presents a delicate, fragrant scent. These flowers typically cluster, enhancing the visual appeal with their fine, subtle hues and pleasant fragrance. Key blooming periods occur in the spring, showcasing the plant's charming floral display that aids in its identification.

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Stem Features

The stem of camphor tree features new twigs that are initially green, transitioning to red-brown as they mature. The buds are pointed and approximately 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) long. Stems are smooth and cylindrical, with a notable sheen. Branching exhibits a distinct pattern, with lateral branches extending alternately. The texture is relatively firm, providing a resilient support structure. The thickness of the stem varies, typically ranging from slender to moderately stout, with no notable thorns or spines.

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Fruit Features

The fruit of camphor tree is a distinguished, rounded drupe approximately 7 - 10 mm (about 1/4” to less than 1/2”) in width. As it matures, its skin transforms into a purplish-black hue, indicating ripeness. Inside the fleshy, dark blue to black exterior lies a single seed, encased within the succulent flesh. The fruit's substantial size and characteristic color transition from a younger stage to full maturity are key features for identification.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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Camphor tree and Their Similar Plants

True cinnamon tree vs. Camphor tree: What's The Difference?

True cinnamon tree (Cinnamomum verum) is an evergreen tree that will grow from 9 to 15 m tall. This species produces a superior quality of cinnamon that is highly prized by gourmet chefs and culinarians. Native to Asia, it produces a fruit that is eaten by birds, spreading the seed from one area to another. Blooms from spring to summer, followed by the production of single-seeded fruit. It has become invasive in some areas.

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Key Facts About Camphor tree

Attributes of Camphor tree

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

20 m to 30 m

Spread

6 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

4 mm to 6 mm

Flower Color

White

Green

Yellow

Fruit Color

Black

Blue

Purple

Stem Color

Red

Brown

Green

Yellow

Burgundy

Leaf type

Evergreen

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Scientific Classification of Camphor tree

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Laurels, spicebushes and allies

Family

Laurel

Genus

Cinnamons

Species

Camphor tree (Cinnamomum camphora)

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Distribution Map of Camphor tree

Camphor tree is native to parts of East Asia and has been cultivated widely due to its various uses. The distribution of camphor tree spans across continents, marking its presence as an introduced species in regions of Africa, the Americas, and Europe. Within its natural range, camphor tree plays an integral role in the local ecosystems. However, in certain areas where it has been introduced, camphor tree may be considered to have an impact on native ecosystems. Despite this, cultivation of camphor tree continues, reflecting its value to human interests over potential ecological concerns.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

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A Comprehensive Guide to Camphor tree How to Grow and Care for Camphor tree