Фокієнія

The Tree

Fokienia hodginsii is a medium-sized tree, 25-30 m tall. Fokienia is a monotypic conifer genus in the cypress family, Cupressaceae, and Fokienia hodginsii is its only living species. The tree grows in south-eastern China, northern Laos and northern Vietnam. It occurs in ever-wet, often peaty mountain forest. Its IUCN conservation status is Vulnerable. It is considered an ecologically threatened species in Vietnam.

The Wood

The wood is very much like that of other cedars in the cypress family, with a fine, straight grain and a distinct aroma. In Vietnam it is considered a precious timber because of its characteristic aroma and its exceptional density. In Vietnam the timber is used to make art works, pieces of furniture, and charcoal of high heat value. Laotian and Dao tribesmen use the timber for wall partitioning or roofing. The timber was formerly used for coffins.

Chemistry

Gas chromatography of the oil identified alpha-pinene (24.89%) and limonene (8.46%) as its largest components, followed by beta-caryophyllene oxide (4.01%) and rimuene (3.22%). Elemol makes up 2.2% of the oil and trans-nerolidol 0.56%. Fokienol has the molecular formula C₁₇H₂₈O and a molecular weight of 248.4.

Uses and Handling

Siam wood oil is used in aromatherapy. It is soluble in 190 proof alcohol and in fractionated coconut oil, and not soluble in water.

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