Taiwan Researchers Record 84.1-Meter Taiwania Fir as East Asia's Tallest Tree
Updated
Updated · BIOENGINEER.ORG · Jun 5
Taiwan Researchers Record 84.1-Meter Taiwania Fir as East Asia's Tallest Tree
3 articles · Updated · BIOENGINEER.ORG · Jun 5
Summary
An 84.1-meter Taiwania fir nicknamed the “Heaven Sword” was officially measured in 2023 and identified by early 2026 as the tallest known tree in East Asia.
The record tree was found after Taiwan’s “tree seekers” used LiDAR mapping and citizen review to refine false readings, cutting about 93% of misclassified candidates and producing a 2022 map of 941 trees taller than 65 meters.
The final expedition followed a 20-kilometer river route and two days of steep climbing before researchers dropped a tape from the crown to the forest floor for the official measurement.
Taiwan’s steep terrain and surviving old-growth forests have preserved exceptional stands despite logging from 1912 to 1991; the team has now climbed 10 Taiwania firs above 70 meters, including two above 80 meters.
A 2024 study in one giant-tree valley found carbon density of 1,384.5 megagrams per hectare, underscoring the forests’ conservation value as major carbon sinks.
What is Taiwan's secret for growing colossal trees that now rival the world's most famous ancient forests?
Taiwan's giant trees survived a century of logging, but can they survive the new threat of global fame?
With new AI mapping every tree, what other record-breaking natural wonders will be uncovered next?
Breaking Records: Taiwan’s 80-Meter “Heaven Sword” and the Future of Monumental Tree Conservation
Overview
The discovery of the 'Heaven Sword of Da’an River' set a new record as the tallest tree in Taiwan and East Asia, marking a major milestone in the island’s efforts to identify and protect monumental trees. This achievement was made possible by the Taiwan tree seekers team, who located and climbed ten Taiwania trees over 70 meters tall, with two surpassing 80 meters. The unveiling of this giant not only highlights Taiwan’s rich biodiversity but also brings attention to the importance of conservation. These efforts underscore the value of preserving natural heritage and raising public awareness about tree protection.