Sugi

(Cryptomeria japonica)

Japan

A genus of conifer in the cypress family, it is endemic to Japan, where it is known as Sugi; this vernacular name is increasingly being used as the English name as well, replacing the old, botanically inaccurate name "Japanese Cedar" - the tree is not related to the cedars (Cedrus).

Sugi is the National tree of Japan, commonly planted around temples, with many hugely impressive trees planted centuries ago. It is native only to Japan, where it occurs naturally in pure and mixed stands from Kyushu to North Honshu at elevations to 400 m. The wood is scented, reddish-pink in color, lightweight but strong, waterproof and resistant to decay.

Yaku Sugi - Sugi native only to the Island of Yakushima in South Japan. Yakushima is one of the islands of Japan. It is an irregular pentagon in shape. It lies to the south of Kyushu and is part of the Kagoshima Prefecture. The pristine Yakusugi Forest is said to have inspired the forest setting in Hayao Miyazaki's film Princess Mononoke.

Sugi Burl - Burl found on Cryptomeria Japonica.