PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates brief periods of full sun in warm climates with adequate moisture
Watering
Water deeply when the top 10–15 cm of soil is dry; avoid frequent shallow watering to encourage deep root growth
Temperature
Hardy to light frost (-5°C); thrives in warm temperate to subtropical temperature ranges
Characteristics
- Leaf: Ovate to elliptic, 5–12 cm long, double-serrated margins, dark green upper surface with paler undersides
- Flower: Small, apetalous, greenish-yellow, borne in dense clusters on bare branches
- Bark: Gray-brown, developing flat, furrowed ridges as the tree matures
Care Guide
Watering
Water deeply every 7–10 days during dry spells to support new growth
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once to support spring growth. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote sturdy wood growth rather than excessive foliage
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried, sterilized eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around the tree base and water in to release calcium graduallyPruning
- Prune dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter before new spring growth
- Thin crowded inner branches to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
- Shape the canopy in early spring to maintain a desired size and rounded form
- Remove suckers from the base to direct energy to the main trunk
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: N/A
Usage: Shade tree for urban parks and street planting; wood used for furniture and construction
