Torreya nucifera - Japanese torreya

Torreya nucifera, also known as the Japanese torreya, is an evergreen tree from the family of yew plants (Taxaceae). It originally comes from Japan and Korea and has been appreciated there as an ornamental, user and medicinal plant for centuries. In Japan, the plant is called "Kaya" and plays a culturally and spiritually important role. The Japanese torreya is known for its durable, resistant wood and for the edible seeds that are considered a delicacy in Asia.

Morphology and appearance

Torreya nucifera is a medium -sized tree that can reach a height of up to 25 meters in his home country. In other moderate climates, where it is planted as an ornamental plant, it often remains smaller. The plant is characterized by its evergreen, dark green needles, which are elongated and leathery and reach a length of 2 to 4 cm. The needles stand along the branches in pairs and spread a slightly aromatic smell when rubbing, which is due to the essential oil it contains.

The trunk of Torreya nucifera is often straight and has a smooth, gray -brown bark that can be slightly furrowed in older specimens. The plant is one -house or two -house, which means that male and female flowers occur on separate or same individuals. The male inflorescences are small kittens that appear in spring, while the female flowers are more inconspicuous and form elongated, greenish seeds after pollination.

The fruits that develop from the polled female flowers are nut -like seeds that have a length of about 2 to 3 cm and are surrounded by a thick, fleshy shell. These seeds take about 18 months to complete maturation and are known as "Kaya nuts" in Japan and Korea. The seeds are edible and are often roasted or used for culinary purposes.

Distribution and habitat

The natural spread of Torreya nucifera is limited to Japan, especially to the islands of Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu, as well as parts of Koreas. The tree prefers to grow in moderate, damp mountain forests on well -drained soils and at shady locations. In his home region, he is a popular plant in temple gardens and sacred sites. The Japanese torreya prefers cool, moist conditions and is hardy, which makes it suitable for moderate climates.

In Europe and North America, it is increasingly planted as an ornamental tree in botanical gardens and parks, where it is valued for its striking appearance and its interesting leaf structure. The plant is cultivated in different regions through globalization and horticulture, but can rarely be found in the great outdoors outside of their homeland.

Use and meaning

Torreya nucifera is a versatile plant with cultural, medical and culinary applications. The seeds are edible and are traded as a delicacy in Japan and Korea. They contain valuable oils and proteins and can be roasted or processed in dishes. In addition, the wood of the Japanese nut plate is highly valued: it is hard, durable and easy to edit, which makes it a coveted material for the construction of temples, furniture and traditional handicrafts. The wood grain is fine and the material smells slightly resinous, which is why it is often used for traditional Japanese chess boards.

Torreya nucifera is medically used in traditional Japanese and Chinese medicine. The plant contains essential oils and various bioactive compounds that are said to have anti -inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It is used in the treatment of skin problems and digestive disorders and is a part of some vegetable preparations.

Ecological role

In addition to its cultural and economic importance, Torreya nucifera fulfills an ecological role in its natural distribution area. The seeds serve as food for different animal species, including birds and rodents that contribute to the spread of the seeds. The tree also forms a community with various floor microorganisms and mushrooms that contribute to the preservation of soil fertility.