Chinese Fir

Cunninghamia lanceolata

Physical Characteristics

Cunninghamia lanceolata is an evergreen Tree growing to 15 m (49ft) by 6 m (19ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in leaf all year, in flower from January to May, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very acid soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy; Secondary;

Edible Uses

None known at this time

Medicinal Uses

Antidote Carminative Miscellany Skin Carminative. A decoction of the wood is used internally in the treatment of varnish poisoning (from species of Rhus), chronic ulcers, hernia etc[ 178 , 218 , 303 ]. The decoction of the wood is used as a bath for smelly feet[ 303 ]. An essential oil from the plant is used to treat bruises, pain, rheumatism and wounds[ 218 , 303 ]. The ash of the bark is used to treat burns, scalds and wounds[ 218 , 303 ]. A decoction of the cone is used in the treatment of coughs[ 218 , 303 ].

Known Hazards

Plant has spines or sharp edges; use extreme caution when handling