PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Prefers partial shade to full sun; tolerates dappled shade in mountain woodlands and avoids intense midday sun in hot regions
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal supplemental water in mature plants
Temperature
Extremely cold-hardy, withstanding winter temperatures as low as -30°C; thrives in cool temperate mountain climates
Characteristics
- Leaf: Palmate, 3–5 lobed, 2–7 cm wide; bright green in summer, turning yellow to red in fall
- Flower: Clusters of small, greenish-yellow, dioecious blooms
- Stem/Bark: Slender, gray-brown stems; smooth bark on young plants, becoming slightly fissured with age
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth to support foliage development
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release feed once at the start of growth. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of fall color
Eggshell powder top-dress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around the base of the plant in early spring to boost soil calcium levels without introducing excess nutrientsPruning
- Remove dead or damaged branches in late winter to maintain a tidy structure and improve airflow
- Thin crowded stems to reduce competition for light and encourage healthy foliage growth
- Trim suckers at the base to promote a single trunk if growing as a small tree
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported toxicity
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes resilience in harsh mountain ecosystems; valued in native landscaping for erosion control
Usage: Ornamental for vibrant autumn foliage; provides food and shelter for native birds and pollinators
