PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates moderate shade but grows best in bright sunlight
Watering
Water deeply during dry spells; drought-tolerant once established
Temperature
Hardy to -10°C; thrives in temperate climates, avoids extreme heat above 38°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Ovate to elliptical, serrated margins, dark green upper surface, pale green underside
- Flower: Male catkins are long, pendulous; female catkins are small, upright, woody when mature
- Stem/Bark: Smooth gray-brown bark when young, becoming fissured with age
Care Guide
Watering
Water deeply every 7–10 days during dry periods
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once. Minimal fertilization required due to nitrogen-fixing root nodules
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface and water in to avoid pest issuesPruning
- Remove dead or damaged branches in late winter to improve airflow
- Thin crowded branches to maintain canopy shape
- Remove suckers at the base to prevent overcrowding
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: N/A
Usage: Reforestation, soil improvement via nitrogen fixation, timber production
