Red vertebrae, also known as *Castanopsis hystrix*, is a fast-growing broad-leaved tree species native to the southern regions of China. Belonging to the Fagaceae family, it is widely recognized for its straight trunk and high-quality timber, making it an ideal choice for artificial forest plantations, particularly for timber, water conservation, and industrial raw material production. Due to its rapid growth and strong sprouting ability, it has become one of the most important hardwood species in Guangdong's plantation forestry.
This species thrives in humid climates and prefers well-drained soils, such as red earth, yellow earth, and red clay found on granite and sandstone. It grows quickly when properly managed, typically reaching a height increase of about 1 meter per year and a diameter growth of approximately 1 cm annually. However, in shallow or nutrient-poor soils, its growth is significantly stunted.
Red vertebrae is a shade-tolerant species, especially during its early growth stages. It has a strong ability to regenerate from cuttings, with each cutting potentially producing 1 to 8 new seedlings. After logging, it can reach maturity within 3 to 6 years, depending on site conditions, making it suitable for short-rotation industrial forestry.
The wood is dark reddish-brown with a fine texture, excellent nail-holding properties, and is easy to work with. It is widely used in furniture making, shipbuilding, vehicle construction, and civil engineering projects. Additionally, it serves as a premium raw material for wood-based panels and is highly valued in local timber markets.
The flowering season of red vertebrae occurs from March to April, and the fruits mature between November and December. Once ripe, the fruits split open, and the seeds fall naturally. The seeds are rich in starch and edible, but they have poor storage stability. Therefore, it is best to use fresh seedlings for planting. Seedlings require a shaded environment and consistent soil moisture, so nurseries should be under arbors or shaded by small branches. Good irrigation and drainage systems are essential, along with deep and loose soil for optimal growth.
For propagation, the channel-by-groove method is commonly used. A seeding trench about 4 cm deep is made every 20 cm, and seeds are sown every 4 cm, covered with 2 cm of soil and then mulched with grass. The recommended seeding rate is 40–50 kg per hectare, which can yield 20,000 to 25,000 healthy seedlings. For afforestation, a spacing of 2 meters by 2 meters or 1.75 meters by 1.75 meters is ideal, resulting in approximately 167 to 200 trees per acre. This density ensures good growth and efficient land utilization.
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