Red machilus

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Red Machilus Machilus thunbergii

Description

A large, sturdy evergreen tree (Machilus thunbergii) native to temperate and subtropical forests of Japan and Asia. The Japanese bay tree can reach 10–30 m (30–100 ft) tall, and 20 m (70 ft) width. It is used for timber and as a street tree. Its bark is the source of makko, a powder used to make a mosquito‑repelling incense. The wood is used in making instruments and furniture.

Synonyms and Related Terms

Machilus thunbergii; Japanese bay tree; tabunoki;

Physical and Chemical Properties

  • Leaves = dark green shiny, 8-15 cm long, 3-7 cm wide.
  • Leaves contain sap
  • Bark = rough, brownish-grey, breaks off in aromatic chunks
  • Flowers = clusters of small bright green stars in spring followed by blue berries in early summer
  • Heartwood is reddish brown

Resources and Citations