Cryptomeria japonica

Cryptomeria japonica (Thunb. ex L. fil.) D. Don

Family: Cupressaceae

Common names: Japanese cedar, sogi

This tree is native to China and Japan and was introduced to Europe in the second half of the 19th century. It can reach a height of over 45 meters and has a robust trunk with a reddish-brown surface color. The leaves are arranged spirally and have incurved margins. The male cones, about 7 mm long, turn orange or red when mature, while the female cones are round and reach a diameter of 1.5 cm at maturity. The seeds are triangular in shape and have a narrow wing-like appendage for dispersal.

Widely used for ornamental purposes with its numerous varieties, this species is also cultivated in its native regions for its fragrant and durable wood, which is used to make furniture and interior paneling.

The name Cryptomeria is derived from the Greek words kryptós, meaning hidden, and meryomai, meaning to bring together, referring to the leaves tightly appressed to the branches, hiding them.