PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates urban pollution and compacted soils
Watering
Deep, infrequent watering; drought-tolerant once established; avoid waterlogged roots
Temperature
Hardy to extreme cold; tolerates summer heat with adequate soil moisture
Characteristics
- Leaf: Palmate, 5-lobed, bright green upper surface, silvery-white underside; serrated margins
- Flower: Small, greenish-yellow, clustered in racemes; appear before foliage
- Stem/Bark: Young stems smooth gray; mature bark furrowed, dark gray-brown
Care Guide
Watering
Water deeply every 7–10 days during prolonged dry spells
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once in early spring. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent weak, brittle branches
Eggshell powder top-dress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly around the base of the tree; water in to release calcium slowlyPruning
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter before new growth emerges
- Thin crowded canopy to improve air circulation and reduce wind resistance
- Avoid heavy pruning in summer to prevent sap loss and increased disease risk
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats
Humans: No known toxic effects to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes strength and rapid growth in North American landscape traditions
Usage: Large shade tree for parks and residential yards; wood used for furniture, pulp, and firewood
