Taxus spp Resources in Yunnan and the SustainableExploration Strategies

Yunnan is one of the major distribution area of Taxus spp.,which is widely distributed over 34 counties of the provine.Taxus spp are majorly found in mixed stands of subalpine meedle leaved forests,mixed forests at high elevation area,wet evergreen broadleaved forest and moonsoon evergreen broadleaved forest.3540920 steins are found in its natural distribation area of 221919 hm²,with a stock of 707844 m³. Taxus spp.are valuable for both medicinal use and timber.The Taxol extracted from the trees has been used for treating cancer with ideal effect,which has caused a gap between demand and supply.To ensure a sustainable use, Taxus spp.resources must be explored rationally while plantations shall also be set up to prooide marketneed.Inthis way,the natural population of Taxus spp may be maintained.