PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates drought once established; avoid prolonged deep shade
Watering
Water deeply but infrequently; allow top 5–10 cm of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -15°C; tolerates hot, dry Mediterranean summers and cool winters
Characteristics
- Leaf: Small, glossy green palmate leaves with 3–5 shallow lobes; turns yellow-orange in autumn
- Flower: Clusters of tiny, inconspicuous yellow-green flowers
- Stem/Bark: Smooth gray bark when young; develops fissures with maturity
Care Guide
Watering
Water regularly during the first 2–3 years after planting; reduce frequency once mature
Fertilization
Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer once in early spring. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive, weak foliage growth
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried, rinsed eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on the soil surface around the base of the tree to boost calcium levels without causing nutrient burnPruning
- Prune in late winter while dormant to shape the canopy and remove dead, damaged, or crowded branches
- Thin overcrowded branches to improve airflow and light penetration
- Avoid heavy pruning, as the tree maintains a naturally compact, rounded form
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: N/A
Usage: Ornamental small tree for small gardens, hedges, or urban street planting
