Torreya grandis Seeds | Chinese Torreya
LATIN NAME: Torreya grandis
COMMON NAME: Chinese Torreya, Grand Torreya, Xiang Fei
Plant Profile
A distinctive member of its genus, Chinese Torreya (Torreya grandis) is a slow-growing, evergreen conifer in the yew family (Cephalotaxaceae), native to damp, misty hills of southeastern China, while it is grown for its fine, evergreen form and, above all, for its edible seeds. In good conditions it grows to around Twenty metres. Bees and other pollinators visit the flowers freely through the season. In combination, these characteristics make a persuasive case for growing it.
Science & Biotechnology
The species features in the wider study of the yew family, and its traits make it a useful subject for work on germination biology, cultivation and ornamental selection. The Chinese torreya has a significant place in both horticultural and food research. For researchers, plants like this one offer practical material for propagation studies and selection work.
Uses & Benefits
Beyond its ornamental appeal, Chinese Torreya has the practical versatility that makes a plant worth growing from seed year after year. Ecologically, the Chinese torreya is a valuable tree of mountain forest. Its dense evergreen canopy gives shelter and nesting sites for birds, its nuts feed wildlife, and it holds moist, shady slopes where it grows naturally. Nuts are one of Chinas most famous and expensive delicacies, and tree supports a valuable nut industry in mountains of southeastern China, where some trees are hundreds of years old. In later seasons it demands little more than an appreciative eye.
Torreya nuts, Fei Zi, are a prized roasted delicacy in China and a classical folk herb; the nutmeg-like kernels command fine prices in mountain markets.
Growing from Seed
Seed is the natural starting point for Chinese Torreya, and the process is uncomplicated. Growing Chinese torreya from seed takes real patience, but it is a wonderful tree to raise for anyone who likes a long project. Keep the pots cool, moist and shaded while the young seedlings develop. Use a loose, well-drained seed compost, sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly, and keep everything evenly moist in bright light. Pot the young plants on as they grow, harden them off gradually, and plant them into their final positions when sturdy.
Our Take
Chinese Torreya repays a little patience at sowing time with plenty of garden presence later.
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