Why You Should Never Burn Camphor Laurel
And What to Do Instead
Managing Camphor Laurel the Smarter, Safer Way
If you live on acreage in South East Queensland, you’re probably all too familiar with Camphor Laurel — a fast-spreading, toxic weed tree. But not many know just how hazardous it can be, both to land and lung. Below, we cover the science and explain why forestry mulching is the safest solution.
What Is Camphor Laurel?
Camphor Laurel (Cinnamomum camphora) is an invasive tree originally from Southeast Asia. It’s now widespread across Queensland, particularly along waterways and in disturbed areas, thanks to prolific seed drop and bird spread.
Burning Is Dangerous — Don’t Do It
Burning Camphor Laurel isn’t just ineffective—it’s hazardous. The tree’s wood and canopy release chemicals like camphor and safrole when burned. Inhaling smoke with these compounds can cause respiratory irritation, headaches, skin and eye irritation, and may exacerbate asthma [1].
Toxic to Wildlife and Livestock
All parts of Camphor Laurel—especially berries and roots—are poisonous. Studies show berries may lead to sterility in bird species, while sap and leaf toxins affect livestock health and can leach into waterways, harming aquatic life.
Mulching: The Safe, Effective Alternative
Instead of burning, the forestry mulching method we use shreds trees into mulch on-site and suppresses regrowth. Since toxic compounds are created only when burned or ingested, mechanical mulching allows the woody material to degrade naturally without harmful emissions [2].
Mulching also recycles nutrients into the soil naturally, leaving your block clean and ready for its next use.
Why It Matters
Camphor Laurel’s invasive roots and toxic spread threaten not just your property but entire ecosystems across South East Queensland. Clearing it properly helps regain land health, protects your family and neighbours, and avoids dangerous air quality issues.
Need Help Managing Camphor Laurel?
If this weed is taking over your block, don’t risk burning it. Forestry mulching is safer, faster, and better for the environment.
Contact Fusion Forestry Mulching & Earthworks today to schedule a safe, professional Camphor Laurel removal across South East Queensland.
Department of Agriculture and Fisheries. (n.d.). Camphor laurel [Fact sheet]. Queensland Government.
NSW Department of Primary Industries. (n.d.). Camphor laurel (Cinnamomum camphora). NSW WeedWise. Retrieved July 22, 2025
Images: Lynne Beclue on iStock