PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Tolerates full sun to partial shade; thrives in moist, open woodland settings
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist; tolerant of standing water and boggy conditions
Temperature
Hardy to -10°C; adapts to cool temperate to warm temperate climates
Characteristics
- Leaf: Oval to oblong, serrated margins, dark green above, paler beneath, 5–12 cm long
- Flower: Male catkins are pendulous, yellow-brown; female catkins are small, upright, greenish
- Stem/Bark: Smooth gray-brown bark when young, becoming fissured with age
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist; no need to restrict water in wet periods
Fertilization
No regular fertilization needed; optional light feed if soil is poor. Use only diluted, balanced organic feed if necessary
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to boost calcium levels without burning rootsPruning
- Remove dead or damaged branches in late winter to maintain structure
- Thin crowded branches to improve airflow and light penetration
- Avoid heavy pruning; tree has a naturally upright, symmetrical form
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic; no adverse effects reported for cats
Humans: No known toxic effects; safe for human handling and incidental contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Soil stabilization in riparian zones; ornamental shade tree for wet gardens
