PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates urban pollution and dry, windy conditions
Watering
Water deeply during extended dry spells; established mature trees are drought-tolerant
Temperature
Extremely cold-hardy; withstands summer heat up to 38°C; protect young saplings from prolonged frost
Characteristics
- Leaf: Opposite, pinnately compound leaves with 5–9 leaflets; glossy green above, paler beneath
- Flower: Small, inconspicuous, dioecious (male and female on separate trees); greenish-purple clusters
- Stem/Bark: Gray-brown bark with shallow furrows when mature; slender, smooth young stems
Care Guide
Watering
Water young trees weekly to establish root systems; reduce watering for mature trees unless drought occurs
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of root development
Eggshell powder top-dress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around the drip line of young trees; work lightly into topsoil to avoid runoffPruning
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter while dormant
- Thin crowded inner branches to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration
- Shape young trees to establish a strong central leader for structural stability
- Avoid heavy pruning during active summer growth to prevent stress
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic to cats; no reported toxicity
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Shade tree, urban landscaping, wildlife habitat for birds and pollinators
