Camphor (Camphora officinarum) — identification, habitat & look-alikes

Camphor is a large evergreen tree from Asia that has been introduced to parts of the southeastern United States and can spread into natural areas. Its glossy leaves have a strong scent when crushed and three prominent veins near the base. It is also called camphor tree.

Appearance

Growth form: It is a broad evergreen tree that can grow beyond 65 ft (20 m).
Leaves: The glossy leaves are aromatic when crushed and often show three strong veins near the base.
Flowers: Tiny pale flowers appear in clusters in spring, followed by dark fruit.
Fruit: Small purple-black fruits are eaten by birds, which spread the seeds.

Look-alikes

Wild cinnamonCinnamomum iners

In Florida, crushed camphor leaves smell of camphor, while wild cinnamon leaves smell more like cinnamon. A scent test is more useful than a distant photo.

Why they get mixed upBoth are evergreen laurel-family trees with glossy leaves.

Where it lives

Typical habitats: Roadsides
Disturbed woods
Older plantings
Range: This Asian tree is introduced across parts of the southeastern United States. In Florida it is especially common in northern and central areas and is considered invasive.
Preferred conditions: It thrives in moist, warm places and often establishes after land is disturbed.
Flowering: Flowers Apr–May
Flowers Apr–May

Name and classification

About the name: It is also known as Cinnamomum camphora.

Conservation

IUCN Red List: LCLeast ConcernLow risk of extinction

Culture and stories

Culture and stories: It was planted for its shade and for camphor oil before its spread became a concern in Florida.

10 sources