PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Dappled to partial sun; tolerates full sun in cool climates, avoid intense summer heat
Watering
Water deeply when top 5–7 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging
Temperature
Hardy to -15°C; prefers cool temperate conditions, protect from extreme summer heat above 30°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Palmate, 5-lobed, bright green turning crimson in autumn; serrated margins
- Bark: Smooth, green with red vertical stripes; peels slightly with age
- Flower: Small, yellow-green, clustered in pendulous racemes before leaf emergence
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive leaf growth at the cost of bark color
Composted banana peel tea：Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest issuesPruning
- Remove dead or crossing branches in late winter before bud break
- Thin crowded branches to improve air circulation and light penetration
- Shape lightly to maintain natural rounded form; avoid heavy pruning
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats
Humans: No known toxicity to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes resilience and seasonal beauty in Japanese gardens
Usage: Ornamental tree for winter bark interest and autumn foliage
