Golden Phoebe (Phoebe zhennan) is a type of tree belonging to the genus Phoebe in the family Lauraceae. It is also known as "Zhennan" or "Yanan". In ancient China, Golden Phoebe was a timber reserved for the imperial family, and many pieces of furniture used by emperors were made from it. So, where is Golden Phoebe suitable for planting? Let's take a look.
1. Where is Phoebe zhennan suitable for planting?
Suitable places to plant Phoebe zhennan include Sichuan, Yunnan, western Hubei, and Guizhou, as it thrives in subtropical regions. Only in warm areas can it meet the demands of temperature, moisture, and sunlight. It prefers relatively fertile soil, so the planting site should not be too infertile. Furthermore, it is a light-loving plant, requiring ample sunlight; it should not be planted or cared for in overly shady environments.
II. Characteristics of Phoebe zhennan
1. Color: Bright and radiant. After polishing, the wood will shimmer and golden threads will appear under sunlight.
2. Texture: Both radial and tangential sawing will produce different patterns. For example, radially cut boards may exhibit a "sunshine pattern" with shimmering gold light, resembling sunlight; while tangentially cut boards may form mountain-like patterns. This is commonly used on the surface of large slab tables or furniture panels.
3. Aroma: Golden silk nanmu originates from Phoebe zhennan/Phoebe bournei, which are species of the Lauraceae family. Other tree species generally have a camphor or cinnamon smell, but this smell is pungent and unpleasant. However, the aroma of new golden silk nanmu is a relatively light and elegant medicinal fragrance, while that of old wood is generally subtle and faint; it has the effect of refreshing the mind, soothing the nerves, and calming the mind.
4. Touch: The wood is delicate and warm like jade, completely lacking the raw, cold, and hard feel of hardwoods. It is not hot to the touch in the height of summer and feels gentle to the touch in the cold winter.
5. Sound: When struck, it produces a sound that is "crisp, pleasant, clear, full, and resonant, like living wood."
6. Properties: Easy to dry, excellent dimensional stability, minimal cracking, no deformation, medium hardness, and excellent nail-holding power. Resistant to corrosion; when buried in soil, it will not rot for thousands of years.
7. Medicinal effects: The Song Dynasty book "Zheng Lei Cao Ben" records that "the effects of nanmu wood are to repel insects and mosquitoes, treat cholera and otitis media, calm the mind and nourish the spirit, and prolong life."
III. How to maintain Phoebe zhennan wood?
1. Keep dry
The most important aspect of maintaining Phoebe zhennan wood is keeping it dry. Avoid prolonged exposure to humid environments to prevent the wood from warping, cracking, or developing mold. Also, avoid contact with water sources to prevent affecting the quality of the wood.
2. Regular cleaning
Clean your Phoebe zhennan wood products regularly to maintain their beauty and extend their lifespan. Gently wipe the surface with a soft, dry cloth, avoiding the use of cleaners containing chemicals that could damage the wood.
3. Avoid sun exposure.
Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the surface of Phoebe zhennan wood to dry out, crack, and fade. Therefore, prolonged direct exposure to sunlight should be avoided. Regularly applying a protective wax or varnish can increase its shine and provide protection.
4. Prevent insect infestation and termite damage.
Although Phoebe zhennan wood is not easily affected by insects and termites, preventative measures are still necessary. Regular application of insecticides can be used for prevention, and any signs of insect infestation or termite damage should be addressed promptly.
5. Avoid heavy pressure and scratches from sharp objects.
Avoid placing heavy objects on Phoebe zhennan wood products for extended periods to prevent warping or scratching the surface. Also, avoid using sharp objects to scratch the wood surface, as this can leave marks that are difficult to remove.
6. Use humidifiers and dehumidifiers flexibly.
Use humidifiers and dehumidifiers appropriately according to indoor humidity levels to maintain a suitable humidity environment. Especially in dry northern regions or during the winter heating season, it is important to increase indoor humidity to prevent the Phoebe zhennan wood from cracking due to dryness.
7. Regular inspection and maintenance
Regularly inspect the joints and structural parts of Phoebe zhennan wood products, and repair them promptly if any looseness or damage is found. Additionally, appropriate reinforcement or replacement of components should be carried out as needed to ensure their safety and stability.
8. Respect nature and history
During the maintenance process, the natural properties and historical value of Phoebe zhennan wood should be respected. Excessive processing or alteration of its original form should be avoided as much as possible to preserve its natural beauty. At the same time, its historical and cultural background should also be considered to ensure its better preservation and inheritance during the maintenance process.
