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Description
Calocedrus Formosana, commonly known as Taiwan Incense Cedar or Formosan Cedar, is a coniferous evergreen tree that belongs to the Cupressaceae family. It is a native of Taiwan, where it grows in mountainous regions at elevations of up to 3000 meters.This tree is highly valued for its fragrant wood, which is used in traditional Chinese medicine and for incense. It is also grown as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Calocedrus |
Appearance
Calocedrus Formosana can grow up to 40 meters in height and 2 meters in diameter. Its crown is conical or cylindrical, with a pointed top. The bark is reddish-brown and scaly.The leaves of this tree are arranged in four rows along the twigs. They are scale-like and about 1mm long, with a bluish-green color. The male cones are small and yellow, while the female cones are larger, about 1.5cm in length, and brown.
Care Guide
Water: Calocedrus Formosana prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate occasional drought.Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in spring with a slow-release fertilizer.Soil: This tree prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic.Sunlight: Calocedrus Formosana prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: This tree is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Calocedrus Formosana is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly drained soil.
Habitat
Calocedrus Formosana is native to Taiwan, where it grows in mountainous regions at elevations of up to 3000 meters. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate occasional drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Calocedrus Formosana be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers, but it may not reach its full size.Q: How fast does Calocedrus Formosana grow?
A: It is a slow-growing tree, growing about 30cm per year.Q: Is Calocedrus Formosana drought-tolerant?
A: It can tolerate occasional drought, but it prefers moist soil.Q: What is the best time to prune Calocedrus Formosana?
A: The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Related Plants
- Calocedrus decurrens (Incense Cedar)
- Calocedrus macrolepis (Chinese Incense Cedar)
- Calocedrus rupestris (Rocky Mountain Incense Cedar)
References
- “Calocedrus Formosana.” Conifer Database, www.conifers.org/cu/Calocedrus_formosana.php.
- “Calocedrus Formosana.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287997.
- “Taiwan Incense Cedar.” The Tree Center, www.thetreecenter.com/taiwan-incense-cedar/.
