Independence Taiwania or Coffin Tree. This coniferous species is one of the most majestic trees of Asia and possibly the largest tree, as some reports it with heights of 80 meters (over 260 ft.) and a trunk diameter above its buttressed base of over 13 feet. It was not discovered until 1904 and living material wasn't brought to the West until 1920. Of course the genus is named for Taiwan, but it is also native to China and northern Myanmar. Its closest relative is Cunninghamia, even though its species name "cryptomerioides" means "Cryptomeria-like". But where Cryptomeria needles are quite soft, these are quite prickly. Once established it is a very good grower. This is the first named cultivar of this species of which I am aware. It has a distinct bluish sheen, some what similar to the 'Glauca' form of Cunninghamia lanceolata. It has separate male and female cones, but I have never seen any on any plant here. The pictures of this particular cultivar were taken at Juniper Level Botanical Garden at Plant Delights Nursery, Raleigh, NC, but the original of this clone is located at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, Atlanta, GA. Now, there is only one recognized species in the genus, even though earlier there were two. The wood is quite durable and is a popular material for building. It is considered as quite endangered in much of its range, with several disjunct populations in China, Vietnam and Taiwan. The plants we offer are cutting grown. They are much more difficult to propagate than Cryptomeria or Cunninghamia, but once rooted, they grow off quite well. I would suggest keeping it staked until a terminal leader stands well on its own. These are in very limited supply.
Zones 7-9
