The Camphor tree is a large evergreen tree attaining heights up to 150' and width twice that size. The alternate, glossy oval shaped leaves dangle from long petioles and have a camphor smell when crushed. In spring the foliage is bright green with masses of tiny white flowers followed by clusters of black pea sized berries. The Camphor tree bark is rough and fissured and the trunk can attain up to 15' in diameter. Although it is said to be a good storm and fire resistant tree, it's a non-native invasive species in North America. Here in Florida it is listed as a Category 1 exotic invasive and is disrupting native plant habitats.

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The Camphor Tree is native to China south of the Yangtze river, Taiwan, southern Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. It has been introduced to many other countries.
All parts of Camphor trees contain volatile chemical compounds.
It was introduced to Australia in 1822 and has become a noxious weed.
In the US, it has become naturalized in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Hawaii, Mississippi, Texas, South Carolina, and North Carolina.

The large, spreading roots of this tree invade and disrupt septic systems and urban drainage systems and damage river banks. The leaves falling into streams, rivers, and fresh water damage water quality and fish habitats. The leaf litter on the ground poisons the soil against germinating native plants, ensuring the survival and spread of the Camphor tree.

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