About
A deciduous tree, to around 8m high, with ascending branches and attractive flaking bark when mature. Small crimson flowers are produced on bare stems in late winter. Leaves are broadly oval, emerging reddish bronze, turning glossy green in spring and summer, and then shades of dark 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
HabitColumnar upright, Spreading branched
FoliageDeciduous
Height4-8 metres
Spread2.5-4 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