How to identify Redbay (Persea borbonia)

How to identify Redbay (Persea borbonia)

Redbay, also known as Swampbay, Scrubbay

Redbay is distinguished as an evergreen tree that stands between 30 to 70 feet (9 to 21 meters) tall. Characteristic of this species are its alternate leaves with smooth edges, noticeable for releasing a spicy aroma upon being crushed. The bark presents a reddish-brown hue accompanied by uneven furrows, giving rise to distinct, flat-topped ridges. During the early summer season, redbay blooms with small, yellow-green flowers in cluster arrangements. It yields a dark blue, spherical fruit that complements its vegetative appearance.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Tree, Shrub

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Redbay

Alternate leaves emit spicy aroma when crushed.

Small, tubular yellow-green flowers in clustered arrangements.

Distinct dark blue, spherical fruit with tough skin and large pit.

Leaves are smooth, green, 2-4 inches in length with prominent veins.

Evergreen tree, 30-70 feet tall, reddish-brown bark with flat-topped ridges.

Detailed Traits of Redbay

Leaf Features

Redbay leaves are alternate, simple, and range from 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) in length. They have a smooth margin, and when crushed, emit a distinctive spicy odor. The leaves are generally green, with a few turning yellow or red before falling off during the season. The texture is smooth, and the vein pattern is somewhat prominent, aiding in its identification. Overall, the leaves of redbay are notable for their aromatic quality and seasonal color changes.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

In early summer (May-June), redbay produces small, yellow-green flowers in clusters. Each flower features a simple structure with a subtle scent and measures approximately 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) in diameter. The flowers have a tubular shape, with petals arranged in a modest whorl, making them a key identification feature for the species. This distinct flowering pattern, along with its characteristic hue and timing, helps distinguish redbay among other flora.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of redbay is a distinctive, dark blue and spherical drupe, approximately 0.5 to 1 inch (1.27 to 2.54 cm) in diameter. These fruits typically appear in clusters and have a reasonably tough, smooth skin. Maturing in September to October, the flesh of the fruit encases a single large, hard seed or pit. The overall texture and size of the fruit resemble that of a small plum, and while it may be appealing in appearance, it is generally not considered palatable for human consumption.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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Redbay and Their Similar Plants

Avocado vs. Redbay: What's The Difference?

Persea americana, widely known as the avocado plant, is an evergreen tree (semi-deciduous in cooler climates) that is native to Central America. It is cultivated all over the world for its nutritious fruits. Avocado has become an important plant in many cuisines due to its high nutrient and fat content, creamy texture, and distinct taste.

Silk bay vs. Redbay: What's The Difference?

Silk bay is a small to medium-sized shrub native to North America, typically found in sandy soils of pine woodlands. Its evergreen leaves are glossy and lance-shaped, contributing to its resilience in variable conditions. Distinctive for its aromatic presence, the plant produces small yellow-green flowers followed by edible purple-black fruits, resembling miniature avocados which are consumed by local wildlife.

Swamp bay vs. Redbay: What's The Difference?

Swamp bay is a swamp-dwelling tree with glossy, elongated leaves that often exhibit a leathery texture. Its foliage, dense and dark green, provides a lush canopy, while the small, inconspicuous yellow-green flowers give way to edible fruit. Adaptable to wet soil, swamp bay thrives in humid environments, its roots sometimes submerged, showcasing its remarkable ability to resist water-induced decay.

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Key Facts About Redbay

Attributes of Redbay

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree, Shrub

Plant Height

25 m

Spread

9 m to 15 m

Leaf Color

Green

Yellow

Gold

Red

Leaf type

Evergreen

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Scientific Classification of Redbay

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Laurels, spicebushes and allies

Family

Laurel

Genus

Persea

Species

Redbay (Persea borbonia)

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Distribution Map of Redbay

Redbay, a plant of subtropical locales, is naturally established in the southeastern region of North America. It has been introduced and now thrives in various temperate to tropical zones, where it is cultivated both for ornamental purposes and as part of reforestation efforts. Its range of adaptation is broad, extending into several continental climates across the Northern Hemisphere.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

Learn More About the Redbay

A Comprehensive Guide to Redbay How to Grow and Care for Redbay