Genetic Variation in Chamaecyparis nootkatensis from Coastal British Columbia1

Abstract

Abstract Genetic variation in several traits of Alaska-cedar (Chamaecyparis nootkatensis) was measured in progeny from seven coastal B.C. provenances, each represented by three open-pollinated families. The common-garden nursery trial also included one provenance of Port-Orford cedar (Chamaecyparis lawsoniana). Growth traits and frost hardiness were measured at the end of the first growing season, and morphological traits after the second year. Provenances varied in percentage germination, shoot dry weight, shoot to root dry weight ratio, number of lateral branches per stem, and cold injury to a minimum temperature of -20°C in December. Families differed in height, root collar diameter, and in the number of nodes of primary foliage. Port-Orford cedar exhibited much greater height, stem caliper, and dry weight than any Alaska-cedar provenance, but was more susceptible to frost damage. West. J. Appl. For. 7(1):25-29.