(species Austrocedrus chilensis), ornamental and timber evergreen conifer, the only species of the genus Austrocedrus, of the cypress family (Cupressaceae). It is native to southern Chile and southern Argentina. The Chilean cedar may grow up to 24 metres (about 80 feet) tall, but it is usually much shorter. Its durable, fragrant wood is used locally for carpentry. The hardy tree is cultivated as an ornamental in Great Britain.