What is cathaya?

Cathaya is a genus of coniferous trees in the family Pinaceae. There is only one species in the genus, Cathaya argyrophylla, which is native to China, particularly in the provinces of Guizhou, Sichuan, and Yunnan.

Cathaya argyrophylla is commonly known as the silver fir and can grow up to 30 meters in height. It has silver-green needles that grow in spirals around the branches and cylindrical cones that are about 10–15 cm long. It grows at high altitudes in mountainous areas and is adapted to cold and wet conditions.

Cathaya argyrophylla has unique features that distinguish it from other coniferous trees, including its large seeds that are edible and its ability to form dense, pure stands without competing with other tree species. It is considered a critically endangered species due to habitat loss and commercial logging.

Cathaya argyrophylla has been valued for its timber and is used in construction, furniture making, and as a source of pulp. Its seeds are also used for food and oil production in some areas of China. The tree has also been cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.