This work describes nine Chilean coniferous species with special reference to their Botanic, ecological and silvicultural characteristics. The economic value of these native species in the past, and their importance in the present is given. Chilean coniferous forests, like all forests in the country, have suffered destruction fire since the of arrival of the Spaniards. Laws have not been able to protect these species. It seems necessary to educate people, mainly the young at school, in order to obtain a better use of the forest, and to preserve the genetic patrimony of the country.