Calocedrus rupestris is very closely related to Calocedrus macrolepis and was included in that species until it was described as distinct in 2004.

Common Name:

General Information

Calocedrus rupestris is an evergreen tree with a broadly rounded crown; it can grow up to 25 metres tall. The straight bole can be 100cm in diameter, occasionally to 120cm[].
The tree is harvested from the wild for its resin and valuable wood.
Calocedrus rupestris is threatened throughout its range by selective logging for timber, general deforestation and forest degradation. The plant is classified as 'Endangered' in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species(2013)[].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

Range

E. Asia - southern China (Guangxi), northern Vietnam, ?Laos

Habitat

Only found on rocky limestone ridges and steep slopes; at elevations from 650 - 700 metres[, ].

Properties

Conservation Status	Endangered
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Evergreen Tree
Height	18.00 m
Pollinators	Wind
Cultivation Status	Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

Within its latitudinal and elevational range, Calocedrus rupestris experiences a monsoon tropical climate, with a July-October wet season and annual rainfall of 1,200 - 3,000mm. Temperature is seasonally variable with winter lows cold enough to experience occasional frosts, and summer highs around 35°c[]. The tree can tolerate frosts, but needs hot summers in order to do so. It is likely to succeed in warm temperate areas with continental climates and mild winters such as southeastern USA[].
Only found on well-drained limestone soils in the wild[].
Some living trees are estimated to be 600 - 800 years old[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

None known

Other Uses

A resin is obtained from the trunk[].

This species is frequently exploited for its valuable timber which may be used for construction, furniture and fine crafts.

Propagation

Seed - sow early spring in a greenhouse[]. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in light shade in a greenhouse or cold frame for their first winter. Plant them out in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts and consider giving them some protection from the cold for their first winter outdoors.
Cuttings of the current season's growth, taken in mid autumn, in a light sandy soil in a cold frame[].