Group of about 150 species of trees and large shrubs grown chiefly for their handsome evergreen foliage. Related to avocado (Persea americana) and camphor tree (Cinnamomum). None is very common, but all are well worth seeking out.
Native to swamps from Delaware to Florida.
Grows 2040 feet tall and 20 feet wide, with a dense crown of aromatic, shiny, dark green leaves to 6 inches long and 2 inches wide.
Creamy flowers in May or June are inconspicuous.
Small, dark blue to black fruit appears in early fall, borne on attractive red stalks.
Needs regular to ample water; tolerates very wet soil and salt spray.
Zones LS, CS, TS; USDA 8-10.
Handsome plant to 10 feet tall, 610 feet wide.
Leaves are shiny green above and covered with silky, chestnut brown hairs beneath; they grow 13 inches long and 12114 inches wide.
When crushed, foliage smells like that of culinary bay (Laurus nobilis).
Small, yellowish spring flowers are followed by small purplish black fruit in fall.
Very drought tolerant; needs good drainage and full sun.
Native to Japan, China, Korea.
Fast grower to 6080 feet tall, 4060 feet wide.
Thick, glossy leaves are deep green above, paler beneath, to 6 inches long and 212 inches wide.
Tiny, yellowish spring flowers; blackish purple fruit in summer.
A nice lawn, shade, or street tree.
Provide regular water and full sun.