Platycladus orientalis Seeds | Oriental Arborvitae
LATIN NAME: Platycladus orientalis
COMMON NAME: Oriental Arborvitae
Plant Profile
Known to gardeners as Oriental Arborvitae, Platycladus orientalis is an evergreen conifer in the cypress family, native to warm, dry places of the north-eastern China and surrounding regions, while it is treasured for its fine, fan-like foliage. In cypress family it is fan-leaved arborvitae of warm, dry places, a tree whose flat, evergreen sprays and durable wood have served east for generations. Given room and time, it reaches roughly Twenty metres. In combination, these characteristics make a persuasive case for growing it.
Science & Biotechnology
Like other members of the cypress family, Platycladus orientalis draws steady attention from botanists and plant breeders, who value the genus both as a subject of research and as a source of garden-worthy material. The Oriental arborvitae appears in conifer papers of region, and botanists have mapped its place in cypress family and dry flora of the north-east. In practice, its long garden history means the grower inherits a plant of known and dependable habits.
Uses & Benefits
In the garden, Oriental Arborvitae earns its place in borders, containers and mixed plantings, and it also rewards growers who raise plants for cutting, drying or kitchen use. In warm, dry garden, the Oriental arborvitae is fan-leaved conifer of stately corner. Its bluish-grey cones feed small creatures, and flat, evergreen sprays give garden a fine, formal presence through the year. Durable, fragrant wood has served fine building and crafts of region, and tree grows well in dry, well-drained ground of sunny, open spot. Once settled, it thrives on neglect more than on fussing.
Arborvitae gives two classical Chinese herbs: the leafy twigs, Ce Bai Ye, for cooling blood and stopping bleeding, and the seeds, Bai Zi Ren, a gentle calming tonic for sleep and dry constipation.
Growing from Seed
Starting Oriental Arborvitae from seed is simple and satisfying. Sow the seeds evenly over the surface and cover lightly in a loose, well-drained seed compost, keep the sowing evenly moist, and give the pot or tray bright light. Prick the seedlings out once they are large enough to handle, grow them on in bright light, and plant out when conditions allow.
Our Take
Being an evergreen conifer, it asks for a permanent spot and repays it yearly. Sun, free drainage and a patient first year are all it really requires.
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