Contents
Description
Nothotsuga Longibracteata, commonly known as the Chinese Hemlock, is a tree species that belongs to the pine family. It is widely found in China, specifically in the provinces of Anhui, Fujian, Guangdong, Guangxi, Guizhou, Hubei, Hunan, Jiangxi, Shaanxi, Sichuan, Yunnan, and Zhejiang. It is an evergreen tree that can reach a height of up to 40 meters, with a trunk diameter of up to 1 meter. The bark is dark brown to blackish, and the leaves are needle-like, with a length of 1-3 cm and a width of 1-2 mm. The cones are oblong, measuring 2-3 cm long and 1.5-2 cm wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Pinaceae |
| Genus | Nothotsuga |
Appearance
The Chinese Hemlock has a graceful and slender appearance. Its branches are slightly drooping, and its leaves are glossy green, with a silvery underside. The tree’s bark is smooth and has a reddish-brown color when young, which turns to a darker, rougher texture as it matures. The cones are light green when young, and turn to a light brown color when mature. The Chinese Hemlock is a beautiful tree that can add to the aesthetic appeal of any landscape.
Care Guide
The Chinese Hemlock is a hardy tree that can grow in a variety of soil types, including loam, sandy, and clay soils. It requires regular watering during the first few years of growth, but can tolerate periods of drought once established. Fertilization should be done in the spring and fall, using a slow-release fertilizer. The tree prefers full sunlight, but can also tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Chinese Hemlock is generally a healthy tree, but it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases. The most common pests include spider mites, scale insects, and aphids. These pests can be controlled with regular applications of insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. The most common diseases include root rot, canker, and blight. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring good drainage and proper pruning practices.
Habitat
The Chinese Hemlock is native to China, and is found in a variety of habitats, including mountain forests, river valleys, and rocky slopes. It is commonly planted in parks and gardens, and has become a popular ornamental tree in many parts of the world.
Question and Answer
Q: How tall can the Chinese Hemlock grow?
A: The Chinese Hemlock can grow up to 40 meters in height.
Q: What is the color of the Chinese Hemlock’s bark?
A: The bark of the Chinese Hemlock is dark brown to blackish in color.
Q: What type of soil does the Chinese Hemlock prefer?
A: The Chinese Hemlock can grow in a variety of soil types, including loam, sandy, and clay soils.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases of the Chinese Hemlock?
A: The common pests of the Chinese Hemlock include spider mites, scale insects, and aphids. The common diseases include root rot, canker, and blight.
Related Plants
- Nothotsuga Gracilis
- Nothotsuga Otophlebia
- Nothotsuga Scotonii
References
- “Nothotsuga longibracteata.” Flora of China, www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=200005720.
- “Nothotsuga longibracteata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c795.
- “Nothotsuga longibracteata.” The Gymnosperm Database, conifers.org/pi/Nothotsuga_longibracteata.php.
