This large tree has an upright stout trunk and spreading branches that form a dense rounded crown. It has glossy green oval leaves and yellowish white star-shaped flowers appear in a cluster during spring and are followed by purplish berries.

Hardiness zones 9 to 11

Cinnamomum camphora is naturally found from China to Japan growing in woodlands on the coast and in the lower mountains along rivers from sea level to an altitude of 760m (2,493 ft).

It prefers a deep well drained fertile moist light sandy to heavy clay soil with a pH range from 4.3 to 8.0. It grows in an open sunny position and is frost and drought resistant.

Camphor Laurel is a large tree that is are grown for its spreading crown. It is planted in parks and large gardens as a shade tree or used in avenue plantings. It is also planted along river bank binding and the timber is used in wood turning. It is suitable for coastal and inland regions establishing in 2 to 3 years and is long lived. ID 112

Note:
In some religions it is regarded as a weed with invasive the roots that can damage pathways or pipes.This tree was introduced into Australia in 1822. Camphor was obtained by distillation and the timber is used for joinery.

Cinnamomum(sin-na-MO-mum) camphora(kam-FOR-ra)

Cinnamomum`: Latinate form of the ancient Arabic name for this tree; 'camphora`: from Greek kamphora- camphor (referring to the oil in the timber). Syn. C. officinalis.

Lauraceae(law-RAY-see-ee)