WSU Clark County Extension
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China Fir

Scientific name: Cunninghamia lanceolata
Taxonomy
Family:Taxodiaceae
Type:Evergreen trees
Native:NO
Plant Requirements
Zone:7 to 9
Sun:Full to partial sun
Moisture:Medium
Plant Characteristics
Height:0 ft
Width:0 ft
Additional Characteristics
Trees


Fruit

Leaves


Bark
Wildlife value

Poisonous
Description As a native to China this fir was introduced into the United States. In the landscape the bright blue foliage color of the cultivar ‘Glauca’ lends interest for the conifer lover.

  Morphology:
This is a fast growing evergreen conifer in the bald Cypress family that can grow to 30’-50’ or more in height in an pyramidal shape. The limbs tend to drop when viewed from the side. The needles are linear, 1”-3” long, and gradually taper to a sharp point. They are arranged in a 2 ranked fashion, though they are set in a spiral fashion on the twigs.

Unlike other evergreens, spent needles tend to hang on the twigs for up to 5 years, which does detract from the older growth.

Female cones are 1.5”-2.0” in diameter, with reflexed pointed scales. The cones tend to be found on the end of the branches.

The bark is red and scaly. On older trees it peels to reveal the reddish inner layers.

  Adaptation:
Site this tree on well drained soils. It will take heavy clay where soil moisture is retained.

  Pests:
Pest free.
For assistance, contact Dr. Charles Brun (brunc@wsu.edu), (360) 397-6060 5701
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