PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; highly tolerant of urban pollution, reflected heat, and compacted soil
Watering
Deep, infrequent watering; drought-tolerant once established, avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Extremely cold-hardy, withstands winter temperatures down to -30°C; tolerates summer heat up to 35°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Ovate to lanceolate, serrated margins, asymmetrical base, glossy green upper surface, pale undersides
- Flower: Tiny, greenish-yellow, inconspicuous axillary clusters
- Bark: Gray-brown with warty, corky protrusions; mature bark develops deep furrows
- Fruit: Small, dark purple drupes, ripening from late summer to early autumn
Care Guide
Watering
Deep watering every 7–10 days during prolonged dry spells
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once at bud break. Fertilize only if growth is stunted or foliage appears pale
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly around the tree base in early spring to boost soil calcium levels without causing nutrient burnPruning
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter while dormant
- Thin overcrowded canopy branches to improve airflow and light penetration
- Prune to maintain desired shape; avoid heavy pruning during active growth periods
- Remove suckers at the base to prevent unwanted spread
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; ripe berries are edible in small quantities
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Shade tree for urban parks and residential yards; berries provide food for birds and small wildlife
