About

A spreading, deciduous tree, to around 10m high, with attractive flaking bark when mature. Small crimson flowers are produced on bare stems in late winter. Leaves are glossy and broadly oval, turning vibrant shades of yellow, red and purple in autumn.

About the genus

Parrotia are deciduous trees with broadly ovate leaves which colour well in autumn, and small but abundant red flowers in late winter and early spring

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7

Plant details

Plant typeTrees
HabitSpreading branched
FoliageDeciduous
Height8-12 metres
Spreadwider than 8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Cottage and informal garden

Care notes

CultivationThrives in deep, fertile, moist but well-drained soil in sun or partial shade; autumn colour is best in full sun on acid soils. For more advice see tree cultivation
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood or softwood cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus