About

Alangium platanifolium is a sizable deciduous shrub or small tree characterized by its variable leaves, which can reach lengths of up to 20 cm and typically feature three or five lobes. In mid-summer, it produces small, fragrant flowers that resemble tassels, displaying white and yellow hues. As autumn approaches, the foliage transforms to yellow, providing a vivid backdrop for the dark blue berries that develop.

About the genus

Alangium consists of trees, shrubs, or climbing plants that may be either deciduous or evergreen. The foliage can be simple or lobed, and during the summer, they produce clusters of fragrant flowers that are either bell-shaped or tubular, followed by berry-like fruits.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H3

Plant details

Plant type
Shrubs, Trees
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
2.5-4 metres
Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height
10-20 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens
Native to
Far East
Fragrance
Flower

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade in a sheltered position - the soft, pithy shoots are vulnerable to frost
Pruning
Pruning group 1
Propagation
Propagate by seed or by semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free