PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates dappled shade in mature canopies; avoid prolonged extreme midday sun in hot climates
Watering
Young trees need regular deep watering; established trees are drought-tolerant once rooted, requiring only occasional supplemental water during extended dry spells
Temperature
Hardy to -15°C; thrives in cool temperate climates and tolerates summer heat up to 35°C with adequate moisture
Characteristics
- Leaf: Large, palmately lobed (5–7 lobes), 15–30 cm wide, glossy green turning yellow/orange in fall.
- Flower: Clusters of small, yellow-green, fragrant flowers appearing before leaves.
- Stem/Bark: Mature bark is gray-brown with furrowed ridges; young stems are greenish-brown.
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist for young trees; established trees need deep, infrequent watering during drought
Fertilization
Apply slow-release granular fertilizer once in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing, as excessive nitrogen can lead to weak, susceptible growth
Banana peel compost tea：Use fully composted banana peels; dilute 1:20 with water for root drenching to avoid odor and pest issuesPruning
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter to improve airflow and canopy structure
- Thin crowded inner branches to increase light penetration and reduce disease risk
- Avoid heavy pruning during summer to prevent excessive sap loss and stress to the tree
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported toxic reactions
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes strength and stability in some Pacific Northwest Indigenous cultures
Usage: Ornamental shade tree; wood used for furniture, musical instruments, and veneer production
