The Growth Equation and Element Distribution of Torreya grandis in the Huangshan Region of China

Abstract

In the subtropical mountainous area of Huangshan, China, 81 Torreya grandis were selected for research on growth and element distribution, with the aim of providing empirical and theoretical support for the promotion and management of T. grandis. Seven growth equations were constructed for tree height (H) and diameter at breast height (DBH) in age levels 40–2000. The most suitable Korf equation was selected by comparing the R-squared values. With R-squared values of 0.93 and 0.80, the equations H = 33.98 × Exp(−53.56/age0.84) and DBH = 158.48 × Exp(−21.41/age0.55) fit T. grandis growth best, respectively. The results show that T. grandis growth was relatively rapid before the age of 45 and then slowed. Among the carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) elements found in different T. grandis organs of the same age, the roots had the lowest C content, the leaves had the highest N content, and the branches had the lowest P content. The roots had the highest C:N and C:P, and the leaves had the highest N:P. The amount of N in the leaves and P in the branches both increased significantly with age, and the N:P ratio indicates that considering only one organ may not accurately indicate T. grandis nutrient limitations.