Review of cultivation and development of Chinese torreya in China

Abstract

Chinese torreya (Torreya grandis cv Merrilli) is a relict tree cultivar, distributed in the subtropical mixed broadleaved forest zone in eastern China. Chinese torreya was selected long time ago from quality trees of Torreya grandis Fort. ex Lind. and grafted on other Torreya trees, then cultivated by artificial propagation. Due to its commercial importance (e.g., nuts for food and medicinal uses), cultivation and development of large scale industrial plantations for Chinese torreya is under way. This review includes multiple perspectives on this cash tree cultivar, involving grafting, biological characteristics, distribution, functional food and health effects, as well as its contribution to local society, economy and environment. The advantage and challenge in cultivation, management and development of this cultivar in China are discussed. The information will be helpful for introducing this tree elsewhere, developing new products and exploring its livelihoods effects. It is proposed that sustainable development for organic food industry and medical use combined with ecotourism should be encouraged.