China Fir 40/60cm (2L)

The Cunninghamia lanceolata is a slender, evergreen tree that can grow up to 20 meters in height, exhibiting a columnar to narrowly conical form. It features deep-furrowed bark in shades of red-brown and sports dark green, needle-like leaves arranged in two ranks, which are subtly whitish on their undersides.

In its native habitat, the China Fir can grow up to 50 meters tall, though in cultivation it’s often smaller. The tree has a straight trunk with a pyramidal or irregular crown. Its bark is thick, rough, and deeply furrowed, often peeling off in long strips.

The leaves of Cunninghamia lanceolata are lance-shaped (hence the species name), spirally arranged, and about 3-7 cm long. They’re dark green on top and have two white stomatal bands underneath.

One of the distinguishing characteristics of China Fir is its cone. The cones are spherical, 2-3.5 cm in diameter, with spiny-tipped scales, and they ripen about 8 months after pollination.

Cunninghamia lanceolata is a significant timber tree in China, known for its resistance to rot and termites. The wood is used for construction, furniture, and wood pulp, in the UK we grow it in our gardens for its purely ornamental effect.

China Fir prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It’s fairly adaptable to different soil types, from sandy to clay, and pH levels, from acidic to alkaline. The tree is also somewhat tolerant to urban pollution. However, the China Fir is not as cold-hardy as some other conifers, so in regions with harsh winters, it might need some protection. It also tends to drop a lot of leaves and cones, which might require regular cleanup. It is hardy in most places throughout the UK even in severe winters (-15C to -10C) when mature, winter protection may be necessary for these younger trees.

Care guide for Cunninghamia lanceolata;

Position
Cunninghamia lanceolata prefers a location with full sun exposure for the best growth. However, it can tolerate a bit of shade. Ideally, the site should be sheltered from harsh winds to protect the tree from potential damage.

Soil
China Fir is quite adaptable when it comes to soil conditions. It can grow in a range of soil types, from sandy to clay, as long as the soil is well-draining. It can also tolerate a range of soil pH, from acidic to alkaline.

Watering
Water regularly during the first year or so after planting to help the tree establish. Afterward, China Fir is fairly drought-resistant, though in extremely dry conditions, supplemental watering may be beneficial.

Pruning
Pruning is not typically necessary, as China Fir naturally develops a pleasing shape. If pruning is required to maintain size or remove dead or damaged wood, it’s best to do this in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.

Feeding
Generally, China Fir doesn’t require heavy feeding. If your soil is poor, applying a general-purpose, slow-release fertilizer in the spring can help support growth.

Pests and Diseases
Keep an eye out for common pests and diseases that can affect conifers, such as aphids, scale insects, and root rot. If you notice signs of these, consult a local horticulturalist or garden centre for treatment advice.

Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres

Time to ultimate height
20–50 years

Ultimate spread
4–8 metres

🇬🇧 UK grown by ourselves at our nursery in Euxton, Lancashire. supplied well rooted in a 2 litre pot approx 40-60cm tall.