Vietnamese Golden Arborvitae: A Botanical Treasure in the Majestic Forest
Vietnam boasts an incredibly diverse flora, including a rare tree species of exceptional biological, economic, and ecological value – the Vietnamese Golden Arborvitae. Discovered less than three decades ago, this tree has quickly captured the attention of scientists worldwide due to its unique characteristics and alarming conservation status.
First discovered in Vietnam in 1999, in the limestone mountains of the Bat Dai Son range, Quan Ba district, Ha Giang province, this finding was considered groundbreaking. Not only was this tree new to science, but it also belonged to an entirely new genus within the cypress family (Cupressaceae). This further enhances its scientific value and significance in studying global plant diversity.
Subsequently, additional individuals of the Golden Arborvitae were found in the highland areas of Cao Bang and Tuyen Quang provinces. Beyond Vietnam’s borders, only a single individual of this species was discovered in Guangxi, China, in 2012, indicating an extremely limited distribution range.
The Golden Arborvitae is a small to medium-sized tree, reaching heights of approximately 10 to 15 meters at maturity. It has an upright trunk and reddish-brown or grayish-brown bark. This tree is slow-growing and thrives in harsh limestone mountain environments with poor nutrient soils and arid climates. Its ability to thrive in such conditions makes it crucial for soil retention, erosion control, and maintaining sustainable ecosystems in limestone forests.
The wood of the Golden Arborvitae is of exceptionally high quality, characterized by its golden-brown color, fine grain, hardness, and natural aromatic fragrance. This makes it highly valued for furniture, feng shui, and other artisanal crafts.
Due to its economic value, the Golden Arborvitae is currently facing a serious threat of extinction. Classified as “Endangered” (EN) by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), it is also listed as a protected species in Vietnam, with strict prohibitions on its exploitation, transportation, and trade.
The decline in the population of this tree species is mainly attributed to rampant deforestation, natural disasters, and forest fires, as well as illegal logging driven by its economic value.
In response to this critical situation, Vietnamese authorities and conservation organizations have implemented various measures to protect this precious tree. Surveys, assessments, and demarcation for conservation have been prioritized.
Additionally, scientists are conducting research and propagation programs, with promising initial results from seed germination and cutting propagation, offering hope for future population recovery. The restoration and expansion of the Golden Arborvitae’s habitat hold significance not only for biodiversity conservation but also for Vietnam’s sustainable forest development strategy.
