Family: Cupressaceae

Origin, Description & Uses:
Cunninghamia lanceolata, commonly known as China fir or Chinese fir, is a large evergreen conifer native to south-central and southeastern China. It is a fast-growing tree with a straight trunk, conical crown, and dense, soft, needle-like leaves arranged in spirals along the branches. China fir has been cultivated for centuries for its high-quality, rot-resistant timber, which is widely used for construction, furniture, and other wood products. Its tall, symmetrical form and rapid growth have also led to its use as an ornamental tree and for windbreaks in suitable climates.

Risks, Threats & Management:
Although China fir is not currently naturalized in Hawaiʻi, it does possess traits that are cause for concern. Its rapid growth, tolerance of varied environmental conditions, and tendency to form dense plantings could pose risks if it were to escape cultivation. In sensitive island ecosystems, these characteristics may allow it to compete with native vegetation and alter forest structure. Caution is recommended when planting China fir in Hawaiʻi, including careful site selection, regular monitoring, and responsible management to ensure that it will not negatively impact local ecosystems.

High Risk Traits:

• Elevation range exceeds 1000 m, demonstrating environmental versatility
  
• Grows in subtropical climates
  
• Naturalized outside native range, but no evidence from Hawaiian Islands to date (despite numerous plantings statewide 80+ years ago)
  
• Leaf-tips spiny
  
• Flammable and may increase fir risk in fire prone areas
  
• Forms pure stands in native range (but no evidence of naturally occurring dense stands outside native range)
  
• Reproduces by seeds and vegetatively by suckering
  
• Capable of self-pollination, but seed set may be reduced
  
• Seeds dispersed by wind and intentionally by people
  
• Able to coppice and resprout after cutting

Low Risk Traits:

• No verified reports of detrimental impacts outside native range
  
• Palatable to some browsing animals (but spiny leaves may deter browsing)
  
• Non-toxic
  
• Valued for ornamental and forestry uses
  
• Reaches maturity in 6-8 years
  
• Does not form a persistent soil seed bank
  
• Herbicides may provide effective control of seedlings and younger plants (further evaluation needed)