Taiwan Cedar Coffin Tree Seeds (Taiwania cryptomerioides) Rare Evergreen Conifer
The Taiwania cryptomerioides, commonly known as Taiwan Cedar or Coffin Tree, is a rare evergreen conifer native to Taiwan, China, Myanmar, and Vietnam. Considered one of the most impressive conifer species in Asia, this ancient tree is highly prized by collectors for its graceful form, unique foliage, and remarkable stature.
In its native habitat, Taiwan Cedar can reach heights of over 180 feet, making it one of the tallest conifers in Asia. In cultivation, it typically develops into a large, elegant specimen tree with a conical to columnar crown and attractive gray-brown bark that exfoliates in narrow strips as the tree matures.
One of its most distinctive features is its dimorphic foliage. Young trees display soft blue-green needle-like leaves, while mature specimens develop flattened sprays of scale-like foliage, creating an unusual and highly ornamental appearance throughout the seasons.
This species thrives in moist, fertile, acidic soils with excellent drainage. It performs best in full sun but can tolerate light shade. Consistent moisture is important, particularly during establishment and periods of drought.
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Rich, acidic, well-draining soil
Water: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture
Growth: Evergreen conifer tree
Climate: Mild temperate to subtropical regions
Why Grow Taiwan Cedar?
• Rare collector conifer
• One of Asia's tallest tree species
• Attractive blue-green juvenile foliage
• Unique mature scale-like leaves
• Elegant conical growth habit
• Excellent specimen landscape tree
• Ancient and historically significant species
• Low-maintenance once established
USDA Hardiness Zones: 8–10
Taiwan Cedar Germination:
1) Soak seeds in water, let stand for 24 hours.
2) Place seeds in a zip lock bag filled with moist peat moss or vermiculite. Place in fridge for 60 days to cold stratify. Periodically check to ensure they stay slightly moist, but never overly wet.
3) Plant seeds no more than 1/16 of an inch deep, and use a heated propagator mat to keep the temperature at 80 degrees F.
4) Use a bright "indirect light" while keeping the soil slightly moist.
5) Expect germination between 3 to 6 weeks. Do not toss out any that do not sprout early as germination is erratic and they will sprout at different times.
Germinación del cedro de Taiwán:
1) Remoje las semillas en agua y déjelas reposar durante 24 horas.
2) Coloque las semillas en una bolsa con cierre hermético (tipo Ziploc) llena de turba húmeda o vermiculita. Introdúzcala en el refrigerador durante 60 días para realizar la estratificación en frío. Verifique periódicamente para asegurarse de que se mantengan ligeramente húmedas, pero nunca excesivamente mojadas.
3) Siembre las semillas a una profundidad no mayor de 1/16 de pulgada y utilice una manta térmica de propagación para mantener la temperatura a 80 grados Fahrenheit (aprox. 27 °C).
4) Proporcione una «luz indirecta» brillante, manteniendo al mismo tiempo el sustrato ligeramente húmedo.
5) Espere la germinación en un plazo de 3 a 6 semanas. No deseche ninguna semilla que no brote de inmediato, ya que la germinación es irregular y estas brotarán en momentos diferentes.
