Wood characterization and meteorological effects on growth of Cunninghamia lanceolata on southern Brazil

Abstract

Cunninghamia lanceolata has been indicated for cultivation on the highlands of southern Brazil, but in spite of its high potential it is not commercially cultivated. This study aimed to characterize the wood of C. lanceolata and evaluate the effects of meteorological variables on the 21-years of wood formation and, therefore, expand the understanding and commercial use possibilities of the species. Results indicate that apparent density was 0.364 g cm-3, similar on trees with smaller and bigger diameter. There were no substantial differences between the wood formed close to the pith (juvenile) band the one close to the bark (mature). Growth was significantly and positively affected by the minimum temperature in June previous to the beginning of the vegetative growth period, and by the air relative humidity of March, April and May. Aside from the negative effects of frosts on the growth during the whole period studied, the absence of 4-7 annual growth rings at tree's base indicates that frosts are probably the main limiting factor for plantation establishment of this species in the studied region.