INTRODUCTION, GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND ECOLOGICAL ADAPTABILITY OF HONGMU TREE SPECIES (<em>PTEROCARPUS</em> SPP.) IN CHINA

Abstract

Hongmu is a general term for eight precious timbers in China. Pterocarpus is a significant component of Hongmu tree species, but its natural distribution has not been found in China. Species of Pterocarpus were introduced and cultivated in China in the 1950s. After more than half a century, Pterocarpus grows and develops well in southern subtropical and tropical regions of China. We reviewed the introduction and cultivation history of Pterocarpus species in China, their growth performances and ecological adaptabilities, and prospect of future development and cultivation of Pterocarpus Hongmu forest resources in China.