PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerant of urban pollution and low-light urban conditions
Watering
Tolerates waterlogged soils; water deeply during prolonged dry spells for young, establishing trees
Temperature
Hardy to -20°C; thrives in cool temperate climates, tolerates mild summer heat
Characteristics
- Leaf: Oval, dark green leaves with serrated margins; young foliage is sticky (from species epithet glutinosa)
- Flower: Male catkins are long, pendulous, yellow-brown; female catkins are small, oval, green
- Stem/Bark: Smooth gray-brown bark when young, becoming deeply fissured with age; twigs bear sticky, rounded buds
Care Guide
Watering
Water deeply during extended dry periods for young trees; established trees need minimal supplemental water
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once in early spring. Fertilize only young, nutrient-deficient trees; established trees obtain sufficient nutrients via nitrogen-fixing root nodules
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly around the base of young trees to boost soil calcium levels without introducing odor or pestsPruning
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter before new growth emerges
- Thin dense canopy to improve airflow and light penetration
- Maintain the tree's natural rounded shape; avoid heavy pruning that disrupts growth structure
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: Riparian stabilization, timber production, and nitrogen fixation to improve soil fertility
