About Chamaecyparis formosensis Matsum.
Chamaecyparis formosensis Matsum. produces soft wood that is highly decay-resistant, strongly scented, and highly valued for use in traditional Taiwanese construction, especially for building temples and shrines. High demand for this wood has led to excessive harvesting, which has caused the species to become endangered currently. A small number of the oldest, largest individual specimens are protected as national monuments, but most of the species' overall population still lacks protection. Essential oil distilled from this species' wood has a one-of-a-kind scent and is also highly valued.
