PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Tolerates full sun to partial shade; thrives in open, wet woodlands and rain gardens
Watering
Requires consistently moist soil; tolerates short periods of standing water
Temperature
Hardy to extreme cold; withstands USDA zones 3–9; avoid prolonged extreme heat above 35°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Oval to obovate, serrated margins, dark green above, paler beneath; 5–10 cm long
- Flower: Male catkins are pendulous, yellow-brown; female catkins are small, erect, cone-like
- Stem/Bark: Smooth gray-brown bark; young stems have fine hairs
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist; supplement with water during dry spells
Fertilization
Optional light feed if growth is slow. Use diluted compost tea only if soil is nutrient-poor
Eggshell powder topdress：Sprinkle finely ground, dried eggshells around the base; work lightly into topsoil to avoid disturbing rootsPruning
- Remove dead or damaged branches in late winter to improve airflow and appearance
- Thin overcrowded stems to maintain an open, natural habit
- Trim to control size in early spring before new growth emerges; avoid heavy pruning
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported adverse effects
Humans: No known toxic effects on humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Wetland restoration; erosion control along stream banks; nitrogen fixation to improve soil fertility
