camphortree USDA PLANTS Symbol: CICA
U.S. Nativity: Exotic
Habit: Hardwood Trees
Cinnamomum camphora (L.) J. Presl
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Taxonomic Rank: Magnoliopsida: Laurales: Lauraceae
Synonym(s): camphor laurel, camphor tree, shiu leaf, gum camphor, laurel camphor
Native Range: Temp. Asia - China, Japan (GRIN);
Appearance
Cinnamomum camphora is a broad-leaved, evergreen tree that grows 50-100 ft. (15-30 m) tall.
Foliage
The alternate leaves are shiny, dark green above and lighter green below, have wavy margins, three distinct, yellow veins and are 1.5-4 in. (3.7-10.1 cm) long. A distinctive odor of camphor is emitted when the leaves are crushed.
Flowers
Small white to cream colored flowers develop in the spring.
Fruit
Fruit is a black, pea-sized berry.
Ecological Threat
Cinnamomum camphora grows in full sun or partial shade, and it is drought tolerant but not particularly cold tolerant. It invades hardwood forests, upland pine and scrub woods, fence rows and urban green spaces. It is native to eastern Asia and was brought to the United States as an ornamental in 1875.
Identification, Biology, Control and Management Resources
EDDMapS Distribution:
This map is incomplete and is based only on current site and county level reports made by experts and records obtained from USDA Plants Database. For more information, visit www.eddmaps.org 		 


State List
This map identifies those states that list this species on their invasive species list or law.

Invasive Listing Sources:
Alabama Invasive Plant Council
Florida Invasive Plant Council - Plant List
Georgia Exotic Pest Plant Council
Reichard, Sarah. 1994.  Assessing the potential of invasiveness in woody plants introduced in North America. University of Washington Ph.D. dissertation.
South Carolina Exotic Pest Plant Council
WeedUS - Database of Plants Invading Natural Areas in the United States