Camphor tree
Also known as
Camphor laurel, Gum camphor, Camphorwood, Formosan camphor tree
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
Get the appAbout Camphor tree
Cinnamomum camphora is a long-lived, evergreen laurel native to East Asia, valued for its aromatic foliage and camphor-rich wood. It forms a broad, dense crown and can reach 20–30 m tall (occasionally more) with a wide-spreading root system. Leaves are glossy, alternate, ovate-elliptic with three prominent basal veins and translucent oil glands; when crushed, they release a strong camphor scent. New growth often flushes bronze to reddish before maturing green. Small yellowish-green flowers appear in spring in airy panicles, followed by pea-sized black drupes eaten by birds. Bark is gray-brown and becomes fissured with age. The tree thrives in warm, humid subtropical climates and is relatively drought-tolerant once established, though it dislikes waterlogged soils. Historically, it was a major commercial source of natural camphor and essential oil. While an attractive shade and street tree, it can be invasive in some regions, self-seeding prolifically and competing with native vegetation. In containers or as bonsai, it needs regular pruning and careful root management.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Camphor tree
Water
Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep roots. For newly planted trees, water 1–2 times weekly during the first growing season, applying enough to moisten the top 30–45 cm of soil. Reduce frequency as the tree establishes; mature trees generally need supplemental water only during extended drought. In containers, irrigate when the top 3–5 cm of mix is dry, allowing slight drying between waterings. Always ensure excellent drainage—camphor tolerates short dry spells but reacts poorly to waterlogging.
Light
Thrives in full sun for dense canopies and best essential oil content; aim for 6–8+ hours of direct light daily. Tolerates light, dappled shade—especially when young—but may develop a looser habit and reduced flowering/fruiting. In hot inland climates, brief afternoon shade is acceptable if overall light remains high. Indoor cultivation is not recommended long-term, but for temporary container care, provide the brightest possible exposure and rotate regularly for even growth.
Nutrients
Feed in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 8-8-8 to 12-6-6) at label rates, supplemented with compost or well-rotted organic matter to improve soil structure. In containers, use a controlled-release formula and a periodic liquid feed at half strength during active growth. Avoid high nitrogen late in summer, which promotes soft growth prone to cold damage. Ensure micronutrients (especially iron and magnesium) in alkaline soils. Do not fertilize stressed or waterlogged trees.
Temperature
Best in warm, humid climates with average growing-season temperatures 18–30°C. Hardy to roughly −5 to −7°C for short periods once established, though young plants are more frost-sensitive. Suited to USDA Zones 9–11 (and protected 8b sites). Provide wind protection in exposed, cold locations to reduce leaf scorch. Avoid planting in frost pockets or areas with persistent hard freezes. Container specimens should be overwintered frost-free or protected during cold snaps.
