Caucasian Wingnut
pterocarya fraxinifolia
Also known as: ["Caucasian Wing Nut","Caucasian Walnut"]
Overview
A large deciduous tree native to the Caucasus region, known for its distinctive winged fruits and large, pinnate leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fagales |
| Family: | Juglandaceae |
| Genus: | Pterocarya |
| Botanical Name: | Pterocarya fraxinifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden, prefers space for root and canopy expansion
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed for rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates some shade but may grow less vigorously.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Monitor leaf scorch; provide dappled shade in extreme heat; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, fertile, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good aeration; avoid compacted soil; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–9; tolerates cold down to -20°C (-4°F); prefers moderate temperatures in summer.
Protect from late frosts; avoid placing in drafty areas; adjust watering in extreme temperatures.
Fertilizing
monthly during spring and summer, every 2 months in fall and winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; water well after application.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or root cuttings; seeds require stratification for germination.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect seeds in autumn.
- Stratify for 3 months.
- Sow in spring.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring for seeds (after stratification); late summer for root cuttings.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions for cuttings; bright indirect light for seeds during germination.
Medium
Seed: moist sand or peat for stratification; cuttings: well-draining soil mix with perlite.
Hormone
Rooting hormone can be used for cuttings but is not strictly necessary.
Timeline
Seeds: germination in 1–3 months after stratification; cuttings: roots in 4–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), pots, stratification container.
Quick Tips
Stratify seeds to break dormancy; use sterile tools for cuttings; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open canopy; heading cuts to control size; selective branch removal.
Pruning Plan
Shape tree for aesthetic appeal; remove dead or crossing branches; maintain healthy structure.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; make clean cuts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter if repotting.
Method
Gently remove root ball; trim any circling roots; repot in well-draining soil with added organic matter.
Suggestions
Not typically repotted; if container-grown, repot every 2–3 years to refresh soil.
Checklist
Check root bound status; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the trunk to saturate the root zone; ensure water penetrates deeply to encourage deep roots; water early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during growing season; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch or wilting in excessive heat; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold stress.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or drop; growth slows; young or newly planted trees are more susceptible.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with burlap in severe cold; ensure proper hardiness for the region.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature leaf drop; reduced growth in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil nutrients; apply in spring; follow label instructions; water after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing; reduce or stop in late summer/autumn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPterocarya fraxinifolia is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not produce compounds that are harmful to felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to cats
Dogs
Non-toxicPterocarya fraxinifolia is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to dogs
Humans
Non-toxicPterocarya fraxinifolia, commonly known as Caucasian Wingnut, is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant does not produce known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to humans
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pterocarya fraxinifolia suitable for small gardens?
A: No, it is a large tree and requires ample space.
Q: Does it produce edible nuts?
A: The nuts are not typically consumed by humans but may be eaten by wildlife.
Q: How fast does it grow?
A: It is considered a fast-growing tree, often adding several feet in height per year.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Juglandaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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