Trees in Japan

Japan has many different types of trees, and I had questions about one particular tree. However, feel free to use this thread to discuss all trees (if anyone sees fit).


My question is about the fukugi tree. I have been searching for specifics on this tree, but haven't found what I am looking for.

I know that it has been used over time as a wind break to prevent damage from typhoons. I also know that it blossoms yellow in the spring. It is also requarded (it seems) in Japan to be very strong, and kind of the warrior or protector.

I am more interested in if it produces any odors. I have several trees where I am that seem to produce a smell similar to natural gas. This smell comes from the fruit that it bears in August and September. Some locals tell me this is the fukugi tree, and it looks similar to photos I have seen online, others have called it a different name. I can not locate anything online that supports this...can anyone help out?

fukugi tree
フクギ
t is evergreen Takagi who is famous as a windbreak forest in the South-West Islands of Okinawa with many typhoons.
http://www.amami.or.jp/kouiki/seibutsusigen/detail_plant/plant_detail_451.html

No idea about the fukugi tree but thought i'd just pipe in nonetheless. I have a beautiful persimmon tree right outside the front window of my home and a great kinkan tree that produces an amazing amount of fruit each season. Gotta love trees

What's wrong with trees in JAPAN?:?

I have no idea about fukugi. only one I know about is the oak tree on which beatles suck tap of it.

Sakura...! I ahve 3 in my front yard!

yamada said:

I have no idea about fukugi. only one I know about is the oak tree on which beatles suck tap of it.

Click to expand...

Paul and Ringo come to Japan to suck tap from trees? Amazing!

I've noticed this thread for the first time now.

As Nagashima-san posted, its scientific name is Garcinia subelliptica, and is native to subtropical Ryukyu Islands, Taiwan, and other southern islands. Okinawa and periphery are a different ecoregion compared to the islands to the north. (The Japanese alpine region and Hokkaido and periphery are also different ecoregions.) That's the reason the people who live in Japan don't know fukugi. I actually have never seen it either. Nagashima-san's link shows it has many names, depending on the island in the Ryukyus.

It seems to be used to make yellow dye. I couldn't find out anything about its odor.

Two Taiwanese links on the tree:
http://www.wrasb.gov.tw/TSENGWEN/english/wither04/dd_04_42.htm
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Hope it helps!