PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Prefers full sun to partial shade; tolerates subpolar low-light conditions and strong winds
Watering
Drought-tolerant once established; water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings
Temperature
Hardy to subfreezing temperatures; withstands wind chill down to -10°C; avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures above 20°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Small, oval, leathery leaves with serrated margins; glossy dark green above, pale beneath
- Flower: Male flowers are yellowish catkins; female flowers are tiny, greenish clusters
- Bark: Smooth, silvery-grey bark with subtle horizontal lenticels
Care Guide
Watering
Water deeply every 7–10 days during active growth periods
Fertilization
Apply slow-release organic feed once at the start of growing season. Use low-nitrogen, phosphorus-rich feed to support root development and cold hardiness
Composted leaf mold tea：Use fully decomposed leaf mold; dilute 1:20 with water for root drenching to avoid introducing pathogens or odorPruning
- Prune dead or damaged branches in late winter to maintain structural integrity
- Thin overcrowded inner branches to improve air circulation and light penetration
- Avoid heavy pruning, as the slow-growing tree recovers poorly from severe cutting
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: No documented toxicity to cats
Humans: No documented toxic effects on humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental tree for cool climate gardens; ecological restoration in subpolar exposed sites
