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Camphor tree Facts

Camphor tree Facts
Camphor tree, also known as camphor laurel, is an evergreen plant that belongs to the laurel family. It grows natively in the valleys and mountain slopes of Japan, China, Taiwan and Vietnam. Camphor tree thrives in the open, dry, sunny areas with sandy, fertile soil. Thanks to its ornamental morphology and minty scent, camphor tree can be found in tropical areas around the world today. Due to ability to easily occupy new areas and prevent growth of native species of trees, camphor tree is often classified as invasive outside its home range.
Interesting Camphor tree Facts:
Camphor tree can reach 25 to 100 feet in height and 6 feet in diameter (of trunk).
Camphor tree has reddish brown, scaly or irregularly furrowed bark that changes color to light grey, that is typically seen in mature trees.
Camphor tree has oval or elliptical leaves with wavy margins. Leaves are alternately arranged on the twigs. Young leaves are pinkish bronze, while old leaves are dark green and glossy.
Crushed leaves, twigs and root of camphor tree emit camphor aroma.
Camphor tree produces fragrant, greenish-white or pale yellow flowers arranged in 3-inches-long panicles at the tips of the branches. Flowers contain both types of reproductive organs (hermaphroditic flowers).
Camphor tree blooms late in the spring. Flowers attract different types of insect from the order Diptera, which are responsible for the pollination of this plant.
Fruit of camphor tree are dark blue or black, round, fleshy drupes that can be seen on the tree during the autumn.
Many birds and animals consume fruit of camphor tree and play important role in dispersal of the seed in the wild.
Boiled young leaves and shoots of camphor tree can be used in human diet. Old leaves are used as spice, while root can be consumed in the form of tea.
Beverages and dishes made of camphor tree should be consumed moderately because all parts of this plant contain substances that can induce over-stimulation of central nervous system and lead to convulsions.
Camphor tree was very popular in Europe before the period of renaissance. Wood, leaves and twigs were used for smoking of meat, while camphor oil was used as an ingredient of candies, puddings and beverages (such as root beer).
Camphor tree is the official tree of Hiroshima.
Camphor tree has yellow-red wood that is used for the manufacture of chests, coffins, instruments and sculptures. Items made of camphor tree repel insects thanks to the strong scent of the wood.
Camphor oil (obtained from the wood and branches) has antiseptic properties and it produces cooling effect on the skin. It can be used in treatment of diarrhea, inflammation, itch and toothache.
Camphor tree is perennial plant with an average lifespan of 50 to 150 years.


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