Common name: Madeira Laurel.

Scientific name: Ocotea foetens (Aiton) Baill.

Family: Lauraceae

Distribution and Habitat: This Macronesian endemic species is an important component of the Laurissilva, and it may be found in deep valleys and sheltered slopes of the island's interior. It occurs in altitudes between 600 and 1500 m. The Madeira Laurel may be seen in Ribeira da Janela, Fajã da Nogueira, Serra de Água and Santana.

Description: It may reach a height of 30 m and the trunk's diameter is astonishing in size. It has a dense top that may be rounded or pyramidal. The shiny leaves and the fruit are similar to little acorns.

Conservation statute and Threats: Very abundant species, under the statutes ascribed to the Laurissilva forest.

Observations: At adult age, this tree's wood is of excellent quality and it emits an unpleasant odour when freshly cut. It blossoms and fructifies from November to June.