PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; full sun exposure is required for vibrant autumn foliage color
Watering
Water deeply but infrequently; tolerate drought once fully established, avoid waterlogged soil
Temperature
Hardy to -15°C; withstands high summer heat up to 38°C; young saplings need protection from prolonged frost
Characteristics
- Leaf: Pinnately compound, 20–30 cm long; 10–16 glossy green leaflets that turn scarlet, orange, and yellow in autumn
- Flower: Inconspicuous greenish-yellow panicles; dioecious (separate male and female plants)
- Stem/Bark: Gray-brown, smooth when young, developing shallow furrows with age
Care Guide
Watering
Water deeply every 7–10 days during dry spells; reduce frequency if rainfall is consistent
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once at bud break. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive foliage growth that reduces autumn color intensity
Composted banana peel tea：Compost banana peels for 2–3 months, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestationsPruning
- Prune young trees in late winter to establish a strong central leader and desired canopy shape
- Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches annually in late winter to improve airflow
- Thin overcrowded branches in early spring to enhance light penetration and autumn foliage vibrancy
- Avoid heavy summer pruning, as it may stress the tree and reduce seasonal color
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic; no harmful effects if ingested or touched
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes resilience and seasonal beauty in traditional Chinese landscape design
Usage: Ornamental shade tree; urban street tree; edible seeds in some regional cuisines
