A fast-growing conifer that can grow in its natural region of origin to heights of 120 m with a trunk diameter of 9 m. In Europe, it grows to about 50 m with a trunk diameter of about 2 m. The orange-brown bark, which is very soft and fibrous, is striking. The horizontally protruding branches are arranged in garlands. The young twigs are edged, first green and later reddish-brown. Juvenile plants have dense branches, but the tree becomes more open as it matures. The underside of the needles, about 2.5 cm long, grow pressed up against the branch and have 2 white stoma stripes. The needles are arranged in 2 rows and are slightly shorter on the young lateral branches. After flower, small, ovoid cones appear. A special characteristic of this tree is that its wood is inflammable, consequently it is used frequently. Saplings especially are sensitive to frost.