Camphor tree (Cinnamomum camphora)

Also known as: Majestic beauty camphor, Camphorwood

The Camphor tree (Cinnamomum camphora) is an evergreen species indigenous to China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. It is commercially significant for producing camphor, a waxy substance utilized in the creation of gunpowder, incense, and insect repellent. Additionally, the tree is valued for its timber.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Camphor tree

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

20 m to 30 m

Spread

6 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

4 mm to 6 mm

Flower Color

White Green Yellow

Images of Camphor tree

Quickly Identify Camphor tree

Leaves emit a fragrant aroma when crushed, shiny green above and dull beneath.

Distinctive bark texture changes from scaly to furrowed with age, forming ridged, flat-topped patterns.

Fruit transitions from green to purplish-black, enclosing a single seed within succulent flesh.

Small cream to pale yellow flowers cluster on 3-inch panicles, exuding a delicate fragrance.

Trunk develops a sturdy, ridged structure with bark varying in color from brown to yellow.

Scientific Classification of Camphor tree

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Laurales

Family

Laurel

Genus

Cinnamons

Species

Camphor tree

Planting and Growing of Camphor tree

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Camphor tree?

When watering Cinnamomum camphora, aim for around 500ml of water each time to ensure the soil is adequately moistened without becoming waterlogged. This amount allows the roots to absorb necessary moisture and nutrients efficiently.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Camphor tree? ›

What should I do if my Camphor tree is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Camphor tree? ›

How to save an overwatered Camphor tree? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Camphor tree?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 8 hours daily

With an ideal light range involving full to partial sun, the Cinnamomum camphora thrives, gaining optimal foliage density, growth rate, and aromatic quality, contributing to its robust health and longer lifespan.

What is the ideal lighting condition for Cinnamomum camphora? ›

What are the solutions to achieve ideal lighting? ›

What benefits come from optimal lighting? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Camphor tree?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 77℉

The ideal temperature range for Cinnamomum camphora, also known as the camphor tree, is between 60°F to 77°F. Within this range, the plant can flourish, exhibiting optimal growth and development. This moderate temperature allows the metabolic processes of the plant to function most effectively, ensuring healthy foliage, trunk, and root systems.

What Soil is Best for Camphor tree?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Cinnamomum camphora thrives in well-drained soils which prevent waterlogging. Well-drained soil ensures that the roots receive adequate oxygen and helps in preventing root rot, thereby promoting healthier growth. This tree benefits from soil that is rich in organic matter. Organic matter improves soil structure, enhances nutrient availability, and increases its water-retaining capability, supporting vigorous growth. The camphor tree does best in soils of moderate fertility. Moderate fertility ensures that the plant receives necessary nutrients without the risk of excessive fertilizer buildup, promoting balanced growth. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Camphor tree?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Camphor trees benefit from moderate fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio like 10-10-10. Apply approximately 1 pound of fertilizer per year for every inch of trunk diameter. Ensure that the fertilizer is spread evenly around the root zone, extending to the drip line of the tree. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Camphor tree?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Before you start pruning, examine the tree for dead, damaged, or overcrowded branches. Identifying these will help you focus your pruning efforts on areas that need attention, ensuring that sunlight and air circulate properly throughout the plant. Always use clean, sharp pruning shears to make cuts. This prevents the spread of disease and ensures smooth cuts that heal quickly. Disinfect tools between uses if you're dealing with diseased branches. Remove branches with sparse foliage to encourage more robust growth. Limit the removal to no more than one-third of the tree's overall foliage to prevent shock, but enough to stimulate a fuller canopy. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Camphor tree plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late spring

Collect seeds from a mature Cinnamomum camphora tree. Clean and soak the seeds in lukewarm water for 24 hours. This process helps to soften the seed coat and enhance germination.

Select healthy and semi-hardwood cuttings from the current season's growth. Cut them to a length of 6-8 inches, removing any flowers or fruit to redirect energy into root development.

Select a suitable rootstock and scion from healthy plants. Make matching V-cuts on both and fit them together tightly. Secure the graft with grafting tape to ensure a strong union.

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How to Repot Camphor tree plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Look for signs like roots emerging from drainage holes or a visibly crowded pot to determine it's time for repotting. Furthermore, slowed growth despite adequate care can indicate the need for a new pot to give roots more space to expand.

Opt for a pot that is one size larger than the current one, ensuring it has good drainage. This allows for the roots to grow without getting waterlogged, preventing root rot and promoting healthier plant growth.

Use a well-drained loamy mix with a pH level of around 6-7. This ensures adequate drainage and nutrient retention, providing the plant with sufficient aeration and preventing water accumulation at the roots.

Toxicity of Camphor tree

Is Camphor tree toxic to cat?

The 'camphor tree' is harmful to cats, with every component of the plant, especially the seeds, presenting a danger if ingested. When cats unknowingly ingest any part of the 'camphor tree', they are at risk of poisoning and may display symptoms of physical distress or illness. Should you suspect that a cat has ingested 'camphor tree,' it is essential to obtain prompt veterinary care, as expert treatment is vital for the health and recovery of the cat.

Is Camphor tree toxic to dog?

The camphor tree is recognized as toxic to dogs. If canines unintentionally consume this plant, they may become poisoned. Toxic compounds are found in every part of the camphor tree, even in the seeds, creating a risk for dogs that might ingest any section of it. Symptoms of poisoning can differ but may include vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and in severe circumstances, seizures or liver failure. It is essential for dog owners to keep their pets away from the camphor tree and to observe for any signs of distress that may indicate ingestion. Should a dog be suspected of having consumed camphor tree, prompt veterinary intervention is vital to effectively manage the symptoms and enhance the likelihood of recovery.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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