PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun exposure required for vigorous growth; tolerates coastal wind exposure
Watering
Water deeply during dry spells; established mature trees are drought-tolerant
Temperature
Hardy to -20°C; withstands hot summer temperatures up to 35°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Triangular to diamond-shaped, glossy green above, pale below; flattened petiole causes wind-induced fluttering
- Flower: Dioecious catkins; male catkins red, female catkins greenish-yellow
- Bark: Young stems smooth grey; mature bark deeply fissured, dark grey-black
Care Guide
Watering
Water young trees weekly during dry periods; established trees need supplementary water only in severe drought
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once in early spring. Fertilize only young trees; established trees rarely need supplementary feeding
Composted banana peel tea：Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks; steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench to avoid nutrient burnPruning
- Prune dead or damaged branches in late winter to early spring before new growth
- Remove suckers to maintain tree form and reduce nutrient competition
- Thin overcrowded branches to improve air circulation and light penetration
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: 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: Symbolizes resilience in European folklore; historically used for riverbank stabilization
Usage: Timber production, windbreak planting, ornamental landscape tree
