Also known as Alipa · China-Fir · Chinese-Fir
Chinese Fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata) is a majestic evergreen conifer native to China, known for its pyramidal form and fragrant wood. It's a valuable timber tree.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, especially when young. Allow top layer to dry slightly.
Well-drained, acidic to neutral loam
50% intensity
Cold Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures, generally hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Low
25% intensity
Does not require heavy feeding; a light spring feeding is usually sufficient.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Chinese Fir prefers consistently moist soil, especially when young. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering in winter, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Pruning is typically done to shape the tree or remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. It's best performed in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Avoid heavy pruning, as it can stress the tree.
Minor thinning for airflow is acceptable.
Chinese Fir can be propagated from seeds, which require stratification, or from cuttings. Semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer or early autumn often have the best success rate.
Use a rooting hormone and provide a moist, humid environment for cuttings.
Young trees may benefit from repotting every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide more space. Older, established trees generally do not require frequent repotting and are best left in their locations.
Repot in spring before new growth emerges.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Chinese Fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata)
Where Chinese Fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Cunninghamia |
| Species | Cunninghamia lanceolata |
Similar in genus Cunninghamia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
