PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates urban pollution and dry conditions
Watering
Water deeply when top 5–7 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once established
Temperature
Hardy to -10°C; thrives in temperate to subtropical climates; avoid prolonged frost on young growth
Characteristics
- Leaf: Variable shape, ovate to lobed, rough textured, 7–15 cm long, green above, pale pubescent below
- Flower: Dioecious; male catkins are long and pendulous, female flowers form round, greenish inflorescences
- Stem/Bark: Young stems are pubescent; mature bark is fibrous, light brown, peeling in strips
Care Guide
Watering
Water regularly during active growth; supplement during extended dry spells
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once at bud break. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive vegetative growth
Eggshell powder top-dress：Sprinkle 1–2 tbsp of crushed, dried eggshells around the base; avoid direct contact with stems to prevent fungal rotPruning
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter before new growth emerges
- Prune to maintain a compact shrub form or encourage a straight trunk for timber production
- Thin dense inner growth to improve airflow and light penetration
- Remove suckers from the base to prevent overcrowding and spread
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported toxic reactions
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Used for papermaking in ancient China; symbolizes craftsmanship and cultural heritage
Usage: Ornamental tree, papermaking fiber source, forage for livestock
