Keteleeria davidiana aka David's Keteleeria

Keteleeria davidiana, or David's keteleeria, is a large evergreen conifer. It belongs to the pine family, Pinaceae. Its native range covers central and southern China and Taiwan. It also occurs in northern Vietnam. It grows in woods and on mountain slopes. Trees stand alone or form small groups, sometimes making pure stands. Wild sites often have hot, dry climates.

The tree has an upright or oval crown with large branches. It can reach 100 feet [30.5 metres] in height. Growth is slow, including in British gardens. One tree at Wakehurst Place reached 46 feet [14 metres]. Its rough bark ranges from dull brown to gray-black. Long cracks run along the trunk, and flakes peel away. Stiff brown hairs cover the slender young stems. These stems turn gray or light brown as they age. Scaly buds show red in spring.

The glossy green needles stay on the tree year-round. They reach about 2.5 inches long and have rounded tips. Their edges are smooth, with ridges on both sides. The needles often line the shoots in comb-like rows. The small reproductive structures appear in March. Wind carries the pollen. Cylindrical seed cones turn brown to copper in color. Scales near the cone's middle have a heart-like shape. The seeds ripen in fall, and growers can use them for propagation.

Choose full sun and soil that drains well. Shade limits growth, while heat suits this tree. Sandy and loamy soils both suit it. It accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline soil conditions. Sources differ on the best soil moisture. NC State favors dry to slightly moist ground. Plants For A Future recommends moist, well-drained loam with leafmold. That source also stresses summer heat and a Mediterranean climate. NC State lists USDA zones 6 through 9. Young trees need shelter from cold winds. Late spring and early autumn frosts can harm new shoots. Plants For A Future advises planting small trees. Larger transplants may stop growing for several years.

This tree serves as a specimen or shade tree. Suggested settings include slopes, woodland, and Asian-style gardens. Its soft, light, resinous wood is easy to work. Uses include building, furniture, and wood fiber. NC State reports no major insect or disease problems. Plants For A Future records no known edible or medicinal uses. It also lists no known hazards. This does not establish that all parts are safe to eat.