Cedrela sinensis – Chinese Cedar (Toona sinensis)

Cedrela sinensis, also known as Chinese Cedar or Toona sinensis, is a stately, fast-growing deciduous tree admired for its upright structure, soft-textured foliage, and broad umbrella-shaped canopy. Native to East Asia, this ornamental tree brings both visual lightness and architectural form to large landscapes, public parks, and spacious residential gardens.

Reaching a mature height of 15–20 metres and spreading 10–15 metres wide, Cedrela sinensis creates filtered shade beneath its fine, compound foliage, which emerges bright green and transitions to golden-yellow in autumn. The tree’s straight trunk and well-spaced branching deliver an elegant silhouette, while its low maintenance needs and resilience to urban conditions make it suitable for a wide range of environments.

It performs best in full sun to part shade, with moderate drought and frost tolerance once established. During late spring to early summer, it produces small, subtle flowers that complement its fine-textured appearance.

Key Features

• Botanical Name: Cedrela sinensis (syn. Toona sinensis)

• Common Name: Chinese Cedar

• Mature Height: 15–20 metres

• Mature Width: 10–15 metres

• Foliage: Fine, compound leaves; fresh green in spring, golden yellow in autumn

• Form: Upright with umbrella-shaped crown

• Flowering Period: Late spring to early summer

• Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial shade

• Soil: Prefers well-drained soil; adaptable

• Drought Tolerant: Moderate

• Frost Tolerant: Yes

• Maintenance: Low

• Water Needs: Moderate; regular watering in dry periods

• Best Used For: Shade tree, ornamental planting, parks, large gardens, streetscapes

• Tolerates: Urban pollution and mild drought

Why You Should Consider This Tree

Cedrela sinensis – Chinese Cedar is a reliable choice for designers and gardeners seeking scale, lightness, and seasonal colour in larger spaces. Its graceful canopy and minimal upkeep make it ideal for those who want to introduce a refined yet resilient feature tree into their landscape. Whether used as a standalone specimen or in a park setting, this tree delivers lasting structure and visual harmony.