Is it normal for my camphor tree to shed leaves this time of year in Central Florida?

Question

My camphor tree is sprouting the berries, but I have also noticed many little clusters of dead leaves. I find a lot of the thinner green newer branches with green leaves on the ground. Is this leaf loss normal?

Answer 1

Camphor is an evergreen. These should never lose leaves to a drastic extent. The new growth at the bottom signals a problem with the tree. The top is dying off while the bottom is sending up what will be a replacement. It may be best to cut the original tree down so that it does not fall, and focus on just one of those new shoots to replace the tree over time.

This article will give you more information on the care of these trees: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/camphor-tree/camphor-tree-growing.htm