PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates wet soil conditions and seasonal flooding
Watering
Maintain consistently moist soil; tolerant of periodic standing water but avoid prolonged waterlogging
Temperature
Extremely cold-hardy; withstands summer heat up to 30°C with adequate soil moisture
Characteristics
- Leaf: Oval to triangular, 2–5 cm long, serrated margins, glossy dark green above, paler below
- Flower: Monoecious; male catkins drooping, yellow-brown; female catkins upright, greenish
- Stem/Bark: Peeling, reddish-copper to cinnamon-brown bark; thin, flexible branches
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist; increase frequency during prolonged dry spells
Fertilization
Apply diluted balanced fertilizer once in early spring. Use only low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote healthy bark development
Eggshell powder topdressing：Sprinkle 1–2 tbsp of crushed, dried eggshells around the base; work lightly into topsoil to prevent nutrient leachingPruning
- Remove dead or damaged branches in late winter before new growth emerges
- Thin crowded stems to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
- Shape to maintain desired form; avoid heavy pruning as it may reduce catkin production
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA confirms no toxicity to cats
Humans: No known toxicity to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental for wetland gardens; provides wildlife habitat for birds and pollinators
