Cathaya argyrophylla (Chinese Silver Fir)


Michael's Opinion

Given the nickname 'Lord of the Firs' in a Chinese documentary about Cathaya argyrophylla, the species was heavily guarded from export by Chinese authorities for many years which lead to eventual loss of interest after having been, for some time, the 'Holy Grail' of horticulture.

Botanical Information

FamilyPinaceae
GenusCathaya
Speciesargyrophylla
CategoryWoody
TypeTree (evergreen)
OriginNative to Southern China.
Pronunciation

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone7
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone6b
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH6
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-18
HeightUp to 20 m.
GrowthMedium

Description and Growing Information

PestsPests and Diseases are not a threat but the poor regeneration rate of these plants may soon be a threat in itself. Over half the population of these trees have disappeared due to over cutting before it became a protected species.
Notable SpecimensWhistling Gardens, Wilsonville, Ontario, Canada. Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, Tetbury, Gloucestershire, England.
HabitatGrows on steep sloped mountains of Southern China in limestone soil.

Photographs