Cinnamomum camphora

Courtyard north of Wright Hall

The camphor tree is a tall evergreen tree with a round canopy. It has thick, sturdy branches and small, glossy leaves.


Botanical Name: Cinnamomum camphora
Common Name: camphor tree
Location: Courtyard north of Wright Hall
Family: Lauraceae
Sunset Zones: 8, 9, 12-24, H1
Native Range: China, Japan, and Taiwan
Habitat: Prefers areas with hot summers and mild winters. Requires well-drained soil.
General Habit: Grows slowly to 50 ft. Thick trunk and heavy, upright, spreading limbs.
Notes: The new foliage is often pinkish, turning to green and very glossy. Clusters of small yellow flowers in spring followed by small dark fruits. The camphor tree is a popular street tree in Northern California, however, fruits can easily stain cars. This tree is also considered highly invasive.