Camphora officinarum Nees

Camphor Tree

Tree

Perennial

Vascular

Camphor Tree is an introduced evergreen tree in the Laurel family (Lauraceae). A native of Asia, it was introduced into the United States in the late 1800’s. It occurs in vacant lots, disturbed woodlands, along fence rows, and in wetlands. In Alabama it is found in the southern tier of counties. In addition to those indicated on the Plant Atlas map, it has recently been documented in Covington, Crenshaw, and Houston counties. The compound Camphor is obtained by steam distilling wood or leaves of Camphor Tree. Camphor is a white crystalline substance that is used in medicine, incense, as an insect repellent, and as a spice in cooking. Camphor Tree has elliptical evergreen leaves that are alternately arranged on the stems. The leaves are dark green with an entire margin. The young stems are green. All parts of the plant are aromatic when bruised and smell like camphor. Although it can become a large tree, in Alabama Camphor Tree is usually a small multi-trunked tree or shrub. Small white flowers are produced in the spring. The fruit is a drupe. At maturity it turns black in color. Fruit are produced in large quantities and are readily consumed by birds which spread the seed. Although still available from nurseries, Camphor Tree is invasive. It is considered a Class 1 invasive species in Florida.

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Not Native FACU- (NWPL)

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