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China fir: Cunninghamia lanceolata

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China fir has distinctive, fibrous red-brown bark; a rounded habit; and stiff, pointy, dark-green leaves that make it an attractive specimen. Before choosing a site, consider the space required for this evergreen conifer, which can reach heights of 150 feet in its native habitat.

Profile

Plant typetree
Hardiness zones7 to 9
Lightlight-shade--filtered-sun
Height30 ft. to 75 ft.
Spread10 ft. to 30 ft.
Habitupright
Soil moisturemoist
Foliage colormedium-green

did you know?

Highly prized in China, this tree's soft, light, pale-yellow wood is extremely durable and used for housebuilding, carpentry, and coffins because of its rot-resistant qualities.

general maintenance:

Prune damaged and weak stems or branches, or prune for desired habit.

pests/diseases:

Leaf spot may occur.

controls:

Control leaf spot by removing fallen leaves, and avoid heavy pruning and overfertilization.

how to sow/plant:

Choose a sunny site with well-drained soil, making sure there is enough room for tree to reach its mature size. In early spring, dig a hole twice as wide as container or root ball. Set plant at same depth or slightly higher than it was in pot, or if balled, level with top of root ball. If plant is balled in synthetic fabric, remove carefully before backfilling. Natural-fiber burlap may be peeled back and left in ground once plant is set in hole. Fill hole around plant with soil. Mound soil to form a 2-inch-high ridge around perimeter of hole to act as a catchbasin. Water thoroughly, filling the basin and allowing water to settle several times. Spread 2-inch layer of mulch around plant.

water and fertilize:

Maintain uniform soil moisture for the first season. Be sure soil is moist before ground freezes in fall. Each spring before growth begins, apply an all-purpose fertilizer, following label directions. Once tree is established, usually by the third year, water only during drought.

garden hint:

Plant this tree in a sheltered location, away from strong, drying winter winds.

features:

  • Attractive Cones
  • Evergreen
  • Winter Interest

garden uses:

    other uses:

    • lumber

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