PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerant of dry shade once established
Watering
Water deeply during dry spells; drought-tolerant once mature
Temperature
Hardy to -30°C; adapts to temperate continental climates; avoid prolonged extreme heat
Characteristics
- Leaf: Ovate, doubly serrated edges, dark green above, pale pubescent below; 5–12 cm long
- Flower: Monoecious; male catkins droop, female catkins are small, upright clusters
- Fruit: Hop-like papery bracts enclosing small nutlets, persistent into autumn
- Bark: Shaggy, peeling strips of gray-brown bark
Care Guide
Watering
Water young trees weekly during dry periods; mature trees need occasional deep watering
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once in early spring. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent excessive foliage growth
Composted leaf mold：Top-dress soil in early spring; mix into top 5 cm of soil to improve structure and moisture retentionPruning
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter
- Thin dense crown to improve air circulation and light penetration
- Avoid heavy pruning; maintain natural rounded form
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: No known toxicity to cats
Humans: No known toxicity to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental shade tree; dense wood used for tool handles and small crafts
