China fir
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Description
A coniferous evergreen timber tree of the genus name Cunninghamia. They are native to China, Taiwan, northern Vietnam and Laos, where they grow to mature heights of . The tree's general shape is conical with tiered, with horizontal branches that are often somewhat pendulous toward the tips. The foliage may turn bronze-tinted in very cold winter weather. Cunnighamia is a prized timber tree in China, producing soft, highly durable scented wood similar to that of coast redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) and sugi (Cryptomeria japonica). It is used in particular for manufacture of coffins and in temple building where the scent is valued.
Synonyms and Related Terms
Cunninghamia lanceolata; China-fir
Physical and Chemical Properties
- Heights: 165 feet (50 m) tall
- Spread: about 20 feet
- Needles: blue-green stiff, pointed, grow spirally around stem 0.8 to 2.8 inches (2 – 7 cm) long and 0.12 to 0.2 inch (3 – 5 mm) broad at the base
- Seed cones: small in clusters of 10-30; mature in 7-8 months at 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) long; spirally arrange scales
Resources and Citations
- American Conifer Society: Link
- Britannica.com at https://www.britannica.com/plant/China-fir