About
Parrotiopsis jacquemontiana, Jacquemont's parrotiopsis, is a large, deciduous shrub or small tree to around 6 m with upright habit. Tiny flowers with bright-yellow stamens surrounded by large, white bracts are produced on bare branches in spring and sometimes intermittently in summer. Leaves are broadly ovate, toothed and glossy dark emerald, turning golden yellow in autumn. A handsome and rewarding ornamental tree for a sheltered, sunny garden.
About the genus
Parrotiopsis are deciduous trees and shrubs related to witch hazels, producing flowers with white bracts and golden stamens on bare branches in spring and rounded, toothed leaves with good autumn colour. Grown in sheltered, sunny gardens.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral, Alkaline
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitColumnar upright, Spreading branched
FoliageDeciduous
Height4-8 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Cottage and informal garden
Native toAfghanistan, Pakistan, Himalaya
Care notes
CultivationThrives in deep, fertile, lime-free soil in light shade, but will tolerate a range of soils and positions. May be grown over chalk if soil is at least 60cm deep. Flowers may be damaged by late frosts
PruningMinimal pruning required, see pruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed or by softwood, semi-ripe or hardwood cuttings. Seed germination requires cold stratification and may take up to 18 months
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free