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The Blue Sandalwood, or Pteroceltis tatarinowii, is a deciduous tree indigenous to China that can grow up to roughly 65 feet tall and can be around 27-40 inches wide. It is cultivated and harvested in the wild for its high quality timber, oil and fiber which is used to make Xuan paper, a form of rice paper valued for its softness, strength and durability.

Distribution
Pteroceltis tatarinowii is native to China, with its range going from most of northern and central China. However, it has been cultivated all over the world for its natural beauty and uses.

Habitat and Ecology
Pteroceltis tatarinowii is commonly found in mountain regions that are rich with limestone. It can also be found on river banks and near streams. Its elevation ranges from 350-5000 feet. It is known for being able to survive harsh cold environments, surviving temperatures below 25° C, but is very versatile in various habitats. Preferable for optimal growth it needs soft absorbent soil, but has been know to grow in dry and sandy regions. The p. tatarinowii is also know to be drought resistant, meaning it is able to store and reuse water throughout droughts and survive.

Morphology
The P. tatarinowii is a deciduous tree that have an alternate leaf arrangement, of which the leaves are dicots and a epitony branch arrangement. This species does not produce fruit or flowers.

Reproduction
P. tatarinowii is a monoecious species. Seeds are grown next to the leaves on the stems in what seems to be the same structure of a leaf but with a large seed in the middle. Not much is known on the natural reproduction cycle of the species, however when cultivating it is stated that their germination months are around February and March, and require a cold climate for the first few months of growth, or as many others say for their first winter. After protection during their first winter they are left to grow on their own and seeds are collected from adult trees in the colder months of the year.

Usage
Mainly used in China for the production of Xuan paper, known for its softness and strong durability. Also used for its high quality timber and oil.

Food
It is not known if this species is edible.

Medicinal
None are known at this time.