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.