About
Pterocarya fraxinifolia, the Caucasian wingnut, is a vigorous, broadly spreading, deciduous tree producing large, pinnate leaves and small, green flowers in drooping racemes to 50 cm long, followed by attractive, long spikes of winged fruits. A handsome and architectural specimen tree for a large, moist, sunny garden.
About the genus
Pterocarya, the wingnuts, are tall, deciduous trees with large, pinnate leaves, tiny flowers in pendulous catkins in spring and spikes of attractive, winged fruits in autumn. Grown as specimen trees in large, moist gardens.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeTrees
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
HeightHigher than 12 metres
Spreadwider than 8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Cottage and informal garden
Native toE Turkey, N Iran, Caucasus
Care notes
CultivationGrow in deep, fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun
PruningPruning group 1; remove unwanted suckers and seedlings as they appear
PropagationPropagate by seed in containers outdoors in autumn. Remove rooted suckers in autumn
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus