It’s not a fir, but it is from China, and it is an amazing and unique species! Cunninghamia lanceolata is a large conifer, and the “most primitive” member of the Cypress family. It is native to China, Taiwan, Vietnam, and Laos. In East Asia, this species is considered a major timber tree; it’s soft, workable wood highly valued for its durability and pest-resistance. The wood is also prized for its pleasant scent, and is often used in the construction of temples and caskets due especially to its appealing aroma. The tree’s formidable size and interesting appearance have led to its widespread cultivation throughout the world since it was first identified in 1702. It is a very popular ornamental in Japan, in particular.
Cunninghamia lanceolata can grow to around feet in height. It can be multi-trunked, or take on a very conical shape, with tiered, horizontal branches that are often somewhat pendulous toward the tips. From a distance, China Firs can look like typical, large forest evergreens — much like the large cedars of the Pacific Northwest. Up close, however, the tree’s unique characteristics and ancient lineage become more apparent. The shiny green needles of this tree look exotic and foreboding. They are wide, stiff, and sharp — shaped like tiny lances, and functioning much the same. Come too close, and you will pay the prickly price! China Firs make a fascinating addition to yard and garden. They are cold hardy down to 0°F, and grow best in well-draining soils with moderate sun exposure.
About Jonsteen's Seedlings
All of our trees are seed-grown at our nursery on California's Redwood Coast, which is inspected monthly and licensed by the California Department of Agriculture. Trees can provide a natural barrier against high winds, temperatures, noise pollution and soil erosion, all while benefiting local air quality, wildlife and property values — a Jonsteen seedling will only grow in value and beauty!
About Jonsteen's 100% Guarantee
All of our trees are guaranteed to arrive healthy and in good condition. If your tree perishes despite your honest efforts, we will be happy to replace it with a small-sized seedling for just the cost of shipping/handling. You can learn more about our guarantee and tree replacement policy here.
Seedling Size Chart: Small
Due to the dynamic nature of actively growing trees, as well as the tremendous variation between species’ growth rates, we rely on the cubic volume of a seedling’s root mass to determine its “size” (Small / Medium / Large / XL). Within each size there is minor variance — the dimensions provided here represent the category minimum. If exact measurements are essential, please contact us about current stock.
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