Conifer Trees Database

Amentotaxus assamica as described in 1985 by David K. Ferguson, in Kew Bulletin, 40th edition, is commonly known as Assam catkin-yew. The species name refers to Assam, a state in Northeastern India where this conifer is endemic.

Description. Assam catkin-yew is an shrubby evergreen, coniferous species of tree in the Taxaceae family that grows to mature heights of 30 feet (9 m) tall.

• Leaves measure 2.8 to 6 inches (7 - 15 cm) long and 0.28 to 0.5 inch (7 - 12.5 mm) wide, without fibers (sclereids) extending out from the midrib. Adaxials surfaces are smooth or with only longitudinal striations (due to shrinkage) when dry.
• Pollen cone spikes (catkins) measure 0.6 to 2.2 inches (1.5 - 5.5 cm) long, growing in clusters numbering up to 4.
• Seeds measure 0.4 to 1.4 inches (2 - 3.5 cm) long.

Distribution. This species is native only in 3 locations in northeastern India - Turoo Hills, Delei Valley, and a valley in Dafla hills of Arunachal Pradesh found growing only on temperate, north-facing slopes at elevations of 5,200 - 6,600 feet (1,600 - 2000 m) above sea level.

Hardy to UDSA Zone 8 - cold hardiness limit between 10° and 20°F (-12.1° and -6.7°C).

Localized timber businesses, need for firewood, shifting agricultural practices and infrastructural developments like roads and dams have led to the decline in Amentotaxus assamica numbers. Even the plant'™s subpopulations have been affected.

is found only in India where it is threatened by habitat loss.