Camphor tree is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 40 m tall. The leaves are ovate-lanceolate, 1020 cm long and 510 cm wide. The flowers are white, 57 cm diameter, with four petals. The fruit is a small, dark-blue drupe, 47 mm diameter. Camphor trees are native to Asia, but can now be found all over the world. The tree produces a camphor-scented oil that is used in many products, including insect repellents and medications.
About soil condition, the camphor tree grows best in well-drained soils that are high in organic matter. The tree does not tolerate wet or poorly drained soils. It should be noted that the camphor tree has a very shallow root system and should not be planted near walkways or buildings where the roots could be damaged.
Not too different with other trees, the camphor tree needs sun to grow. It should be planted in an area that gets full sun or partial shade. The tree can also tolerate some shade, but it won't grow as well.
The temperature condition in the camphor tree is suitable for the growth of this tree. The camphor tree is a member of the laurel family and is native to China. This tree can grow to a height of 30 to 40 meters. The camphor tree has a wide, spreading crown and the branches are densely covered with dark green leaves. The camphor tree flowers in the spring and the flowers are white or pale pink in color. The camphor tree fruits are black berries that ripen in the fall.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is between 40% to 60%. If the humidity is too high, the leaves will start to yellow and drop off. If the humidity is too low, the leaves will become dry and brown.
About fertilizer, this type of plant doesn't require much. In fact, too much fertilizer will burn the roots of the camphor tree. Once every few months, apply a general-purpose fertilizer to the base of the plant. It's best to use a organic fertilizer that's low in nitrogen.
Pruning a camphor tree is important to keep it looking its best and to promote healthy growth. When pruning, be sure to remove any dead or damaged branches. It is also important to thin out the canopy to allow air and light to reach the inner branches.
Propagation of camphor trees can be done by seed, but it is a slow process. A more common method is to take cuttings from the tips of branches in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be about 6 inches long and have at least 2 nodes. They should be placed in a growing medium such as perlite or sand and kept moist until they develop roots. Once they have roots, they can be transplanted into pots or the ground.
Usually, the plant growth rate is between 3 and 5 feet per year. Planting a camphor tree in an area with full sun and moist, well-drained soil will help to ensure a healthy, fast-growing tree. This stately tree thrives in heat and can resist most pests and diseases, making it a relatively low-maintenance choice for the home landscape.
Common problems for this kind of plant are root rot, caterpillars, and leaf spot. Root rot is caused by a build-up of water in the tree's root system. This can be prevented by planting the tree in a well-drained location. Caterpillars can be controlled by regularly inspecting the tree and removing any that are found. Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes spots on the leaves. This can be treated with a fungicide.
Source:
Camphor Tree - Cinnamomum camphora | North Carolina
Camphor tree (Cinnamomum camphora) - California State University Stanislaus
Managing Pests in Gardens: Trees and Shrubs: Camphor tree
