Abstract: To explore the growth pattern and genetic variation of Machilus pauhoi,35 superior trees were selected from natural forests of Machilus pauhoi in Fujian,Jiangxi,and Hunan based on their phenotypes. Seed source and family offspring testing of Machilus pauhoi were conducted at the Fengtian State-owned Forest Farm in Anxi,Fujian. The results showed that There were significant differences in tree height,ground diameter/breast height diameter,and individual standing timber volume between the 2- and 4-year-old experimental forests,with a narrow heritability range of 0.48~0.55 for each family. Four growth traits were moderately controlled by genetics. Through cluster analysis and comprehensive weight scoring method,seven excellent families,numbered 7,16,18,8,13,17 and 15,were selected from the Suichuan germplasm in Jiangxi Province. The excellent families selected in the early stage can be promoted for trial planting in areas similar to the experimental zone,and the experimental research results can be quickly converted into productivity.