loblolly bay

tree

Also known as: Gordonia lasianthus, tan bay

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Last updated

July 23, 2026

Quick Summary

The term "loblolly bay" can refer to two distinct trees. One is an ornamental evergreen shrub or small tree, Gordonia lasianthus, native to the southern United States. The other is an endemic Jamaican tree, Haemocharis haematoxylon, also belonging to the Theaceae family.1

A "loblolly tree" is a more general term for trees found in the West Indies or tropical America, characterized by leathery leaves. Examples include species like Pisonia subcordata, Cordia alba, and Cupania glabra.2

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gordonia
…East Asia and includes the loblolly bay and other trees with yellow-centred, white, camellia-like blooms. The loblolly bay, or tan bay (G. lasianthus), native to southeastern North America, reaches about 19 metres (60 feet). It has ascending branches, an oval form, evergreen leaves, and long-stalked, fragrant flowers in late summer.…
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…East Asia and includes the loblolly bay and other trees with yellow-centred, white, camellia-like blooms. The loblolly bay, or tan bay (G. lasianthus), native to southeastern North America, reaches about 19 metres (60 feet). It has ascending branches, an oval form, evergreen leaves, and long-stalked, fragrant flowers in late summer.…
Read More