Stinking cedar, a type of tree native to North America, is spelled with the phonetic transcription /ˈstɪŋkɪŋ ˈsɛdər/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound followed by the "ng" sound, and the second syllable features a short "e" sound followed by the "d" and "r" sounds. Together, the word brings to mind the pungent aroma of this cedar variety, often used in traditional medicine for its antifungal and antibacterial properties.
Stinking cedar is a common name given to a specific plant species that belongs to the Cupressaceae family, known scientifically as Torreya taxifolia. This evergreen coniferous tree is predominantly found in the coastal areas of Florida and Georgia, in the southeastern United States. The name "stinking cedar" is derived from the distinct odor produced by the crushed leaves and bark of this tree, which some describe as an unpleasant fragrance.
Stinking cedar typically reaches a height of 30 to 50 feet, with a dense, pyramidal crown and spreading branches. It possesses slender, dark green, needle-like leaves that are arranged spirally around the stem. The fruits of this tree are green, oval-shaped, and small, containing seeds that are highly toxic.
Due to its elegant appearance and decorative value, stinking cedar is often cultivated as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks. However, the species is currently facing a significant threat of extinction, primarily due to habitat destruction caused by urbanization, logging, and land development. Additionally, the plant is also susceptible to a fungal disease called "root rot," which further endangers its existence.
Efforts have been made to protect and restore the population of stinking cedar in its native range to prevent its complete eradication. Conservation measures include the establishment of protected areas, growing seedlings in nurseries for later planting, and raising public awareness about the importance of preserving this unique tree species for future generations.
The term "stinking cedar" primarily refers to the fish known as "herring". The etymology of "stinking cedar" lies in the historical use of cedar wood to make barrels for packing herring. The smell of the cedar wood would impregnate the fish, giving them a distinct scent. Over time, the term "stinking cedar" became a colloquial nickname for the fish itself.