In distant Japan, there is an amazing tree called "Sugi", and its scientific name is Cryptomeria japonica. Known for its majestic stature and unique aroma, this tree is capable of growing up to 70 meters tall and up to 4 meters in diameter, making it a true natural wonder.
Cryptomeria, which belongs to the juniper family, although it was originally thought to be endemic to Japan, has actually been widely introduced around the world, including the Azores, for use in timber production. The characteristics of this tree make it a highlight in many places.
Cryptomeria is a very large evergreen tree with reddish-brown bark that peels vertically, making it very conspicuous in the forest.
The growth of Cryptomeria often depends on deep and well-drained soil, which also makes them grow quite quickly. It is extremely tolerant of fertile soil and warm and humid climates, but is quite fragile to barren and cold environments.
In Japan, cedar pollen is the cause of allergies for many people, but its fame has not diminished as the tree is still widely recognized for its beauty and practical value.
The cedar tree plays an important role in Japanese culture. It is not only a common tree around temples and shrines, but many ancient cedar trees that are estimated to have existed for hundreds or thousands of years are still standing, witnessing the changes in history.
Many of the giant cedar trees were planted centuries ago by local lords to protect future visitors from the harsh sun.
For example, the famous "Nikko Cedar Forest" has a 65-kilometer-long avenue of cedar trees, which is one of the most spectacular natural landscapes in Japan. In addition, the age of this tree is estimated to be between 2170 and 7200 years old. It is the oldest and largest cedar tree on the island and is undoubtedly a valuable natural heritage.
The wood produced by Cryptomeria japonica is prized for its unique aroma. The wood is reddish-brown in color and has a low density, but is known for its durability and water resistance and is widely used in construction, furniture and interior decoration. It also has good craftsmanship and is easy to cut and adjust, making it a favorite among woodworking art enthusiasts.
In some parts of India, the cedar tree is called "Dhuppi" and is loved by residents and widely used in house construction.
Tai Sugi (Tai Sugi) is a special cultivation technique used to harvest the trunks of cedar trees, and this technique is widely used in Japan. This shows that Cryptomeria japonica is not only a natural treasure, but also an indispensable tree in people's lives.
In some parts of the United States and Europe, Cryptomeria japonica is also considered a landscape tree, and its diverse cultivars can suit different gardening needs. For example, the variety "Elegans" retains the characteristics of young leaves and is suitable for cultivation as a small shrub.
With the global emphasis on environmental protection, the cultivation and protection of Cryptomeria will become even more important. Its growth characteristics and adaptability make it particularly valuable in a changing climate. At the same time, how to better protect and inherit the cultural significance of ancient fir trees is also a topic that needs attention in the future.
Such a tree that can stand gracefully for thousands of years and bring so much value to our daily lives makes people wonder: What do you think such a plant can do for the future protection of the ecological environment? What's the role?