Litsea sericea, commonly known as Silky Litsea or Chinese Bayberry, is a deciduous tree native to the understory of temperate forests, thickets, and valleys in Nepal, China and Myanmar. It typically grows to a height of 10-30 feet (3-9 meters) and is noted for its smooth, gray bark and dense, rounded crown. The leaves are lanceolate, glossy, and have a silky texture, which is reflected in the common name. Silky Litsea produces clusters of small, inconspicuous yellow flowers in the summer, which are followed by small, round, black fruits that are not particularly showy but attract birds and other wildlife.

Silky Litsea is valued for its attractive foliage and adaptability to a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. It is often used in woodland gardens, as an understory tree, or in naturalized areas. This tree prefers part shade to full shade conditions and requires medium amounts of water with good drainage. While it is not commonly found in cultivation outside of its native range, it can be an interesting addition to a garden for its textural leaves and ecological benefits, such as providing habitat for wildlife. It is relatively low-maintenance once established but may require protection from strong winds due to its delicate foliage.CC BY-SA 4.0