Keteleeria

Family: Pinaceae

Native to central and southern China and Taiwan, this genus of tall, fir-like, evergreen trees has stiff, narrow leaves and large cones.

Species

K. fortunei is a handsome tree, growing to 12-24 m (40-80 ft) tall. It has horizontal branches, sharply tipped leaves and cones 10-18 cm (4-7 in) long, borne on reddish twigs. The foliage is a rich, dark green. This species makes an imposing lawn specimen.

Cultivation

Tolerant of only very light frost, keteleerias do best in mild climates. They require a moist, well-drained, peaty soil. They should not be pruned but allowed to develop their own attractive form. Propagate by seed.

Climate

Warmer parts of zone 9.