Metasequoia glyptostroboides - Chinese redwood

Metasequoia glyptostroboides, generally known as the Chinese redwood, is a unique conifer species from the family of cypress plants (Cupressaceae). This plant is particularly remarkable because it is considered the only living type of genus Metasequoia. Originally, it only became known from fossil records until it was discovered in a remote region of China in 1941, which led to its name as a "living fossil". Since its rediscovery, Metasequoia glyptostroboides has developed into a popular ornamental tree in many parts of the world.

Morphology

Metasequoia glyptostroboides is a rapidly growing, deciduous tree, which can reach a height of up to 35 meters in its natural environment, occasionally higher in culture. The trunk is straight and cylindrical with a reddish-brown, fibrous bark that detach itself in narrow stripes. This bark is strongly reminiscent of that of other redwood trees, which has contributed to the general confusion in the classification of this kind in earlier years.

The leaves of the primeval redwood tree are needy, flat and soft. They stand opposite the branches and are about 1 to 3 centimeters long. During the summer, the leaves are light green, but turn into a beautiful orange brown in autumn before falling off. This property of being a conifer in winter is a rare peculiarity of the conifers and makes Metasequoia glyptostroboides a fascinating plant for botanists and garden lovers.

The cones are egg -shaped, about 2 to 3 centimeters long, and consist of woody scales that are arranged in pairs. The seeds are small and winged, which facilitates their spread by the wind.

Distribution and habitat

Metasequoia glyptostroboides is limited in the wild to a small area in the provinces of Hubei and Hunan in Central China, where it grows in damp, swampy valleys and on the banks of rivers. The natural distribution area of ​​this kind is significantly restricted today, which is partly due to the intensive use of the country and the deforestation in the past centuries.

After its rediscovery, however, the primeval world redwood tree was cultivated worldwide in botanical gardens and parks, where it is valued due to its quick growth and its striking morphology. The tree thrives well in moderate climates with a sufficient amount of precipitation and prefers profound, well -permeable soils that are moist but not water -saturated.

Ecology and reproduction

In its natural environment, Metasequoia glyptostroboides plays an important role in the ecosystem of the swampy forest areas of China. The tree is adapted to periodic floods, which gives it a competitive advantage in the moist, flood -prone areas. Its deep roots and the ability to survive under water enable the primary redwood tree to thrive in habitats in which other plants have difficulty survival.

Reproduction takes place via seeds and vegetatively through the lowering of branches that can take root. In culture, Metasequoia glyptostroboides is often increased by cuttings or seeds. The seeds germinate in well -permeable, damp soils and do not require any special pretreatment.

Meaning and use

Metasequoia glyptostroboides is of both botanical and cultural importance. His discovery in modernity after a long phase of fossil existence made him a symbol of rediscovery and preservation of species. Botanical gardens worldwide cultivate this tree as an example of the importance of the preservation of biological diversity.

In the garden culture, the primeval world redwood tree is often planted in parks and large gardens due to its majestic appearance and the bright autumn color. It is ideal as a solitaire tree and is often presented as a living testimony in the history of the earth. The wood of Metasequoia glyptostroboides is soft and less valuable than that of other conifers, which is why it is rarely used in the wood industry.

Protection and maintenance

Since Metasequoia glyptostroboides in the wild only appear in a small area, it was included in the list of endangered species. Chinese forest authorities and international organizations work together to protect the natural habitat of this kind and to support programs for reforestation and cultivation. The cultivation of the tree in parks and botanical gardens worldwide also contributes to the preservation of this kind.