PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; thrives in direct sunlight for most of the day, tolerates light afternoon shade in hot climates
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5–7 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once established, avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -10°C; tolerates hot summer temperatures up to 35°C, performs best in temperate to warm climates
Characteristics
- Leaf: Bipinnately compound bright green leaves with serrated leaflets, turning golden yellow in autumn
- Flower: Drooping panicles of small, star-shaped yellow blooms with subtle fragrance
- Fruit: Inflated, papery bladder-like capsules that mature to pinkish-brown in fall
- Stem/Bark: Smooth gray-brown bark on young trees, becoming fissured with age
Care Guide
Watering
Water regularly during active growth to keep soil moist but not waterlogged
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once at the start of growing season. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowering
Eggshell powder top-dressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around the tree base every 3 months to boost soil calcium and improve drainagePruning
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter before new growth emerges
- Thin overcrowded inner branches to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration
- Trim suckers at the base to prevent unwanted, vigorous growth
- Avoid heavy pruning during active growing season to protect developing flower buds
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic to cats; no reported toxic reactions
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or skin contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes prosperity and summer joy in some East Asian cultural contexts
Usage: Ornamental landscape tree for parks and residential gardens; attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies
