Camphor Laurel

Cinnamomum camphora (native to East Asia but widely grown in Australia).

Camphor Laurel is a distinctive and highly versatile Australian timber, well-regarded for its rich appearance, aroma, and ease of workability. Known for its strength and durability, it’s a popular choice for both functional and decorative woodworking. Here's everything you need to know when considering Camphor Laurel for your next project.

Why Choose Camphor Laurel?

Camphor Laurel is a great choice for those looking for:

Distinctive aroma and color: The unique fragrance and warm, varied tones make it a standout in any space.
Easy workability: Ideal for projects requiring detailed carving or turning, as well as larger furniture pieces.
Eco-conscious timber: As an invasive species, using Camphor Laurel helps manage the environment while reducing waste.
Durability and versatility: Though not as hard as some other species, Camphor Laurel’s moderate strength and decay resistance make it perfect for indoor and outdoor applications with proper care.

Appearance

Color: The heartwood of Camphor Laurel ranges from light yellow to light brown, with a reddish hue sometimes appearing. The sapwood is pale yellow, contrasting with the darker heartwood.
Grain: Camphor Laurel has a straight, fine to medium grain, though it may also have some irregularities, adding a unique charm to each piece. The wood has a smooth texture that polishes well.
Finish: The natural finish of Camphor Laurel gives it a slightly glossy appearance, enhancing its warm color and subtle grain patterns. It can be finished with oils, stains, and varnishes to accentuate its smooth surface.

Properties

Durability: Camphor Laurel is a moderately durable timber. While it is not as dense as some hardwoods, it still offers good resilience and resistance to decay and termites. It is commonly used in outdoor settings with proper treatment.
Strength: It has a relatively low density compared to harder Australian timbers like Blue Gum or Red Cedar, making it suitable for projects that don't require extreme strength.
Workability: Camphor Laurel is known for its excellent workability. It’s easy to cut, carve, and shape, making it ideal for detailed woodworking and fine joinery. However, care should be taken when using power tools, as the wood can be prone to splintering.
Aroma: One of the signature characteristics of Camphor Laurel is its distinctive camphor-like aroma, which can be both pleasant and distinctive. This natural fragrance is an attractive feature for some customers, particularly in decorative items like home accents.

Care and Maintenance

Cleaning: Camphor Laurel is easy to clean with a soft cloth or a slightly damp rag. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive pads that might damage the surface.
Protection: For functional items like tables, coasters and placemats are recommended to protect the surface from scratches and heat.
Re-finishing: Over time, a gentle re-oiling can refresh the wood's appearance and keep it looking new.