Du Zhong
eucommia ulmoides
Also known as: ["Gutta-percha tree","Chinese rubber tree"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to China, valued for its medicinal bark and unique rubber-producing sap.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","rare/collector’s item","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Garryales |
| Family: | Eucommiaceae |
| Genus: | Eucommia |
| Botanical Name: | Eucommia ulmoides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in temperate regions
- 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: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate slightly sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- 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.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching; protect from intense afternoon sun in hot regions; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Monitor leaf color for light stress; rotate plant for even exposure; use shade cloth if needed.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; amend heavy clay soils with organic matter; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers temperate climates; ideal range 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged freezing.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize in early spring before new growth; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; hardwood cuttings in late winter are most reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Late winter or early spring for cuttings; autumn for seeds.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for cuttings to improve success rate.
Timeline
Cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks; seed germination can take 1–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to encourage bushiness.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage airflow.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts just above buds.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for young plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, or browning edges in extreme heat; stunted growth or leaf discoloration in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop; roots can suffer damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from cold drafts; move potted plants to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; apply at correct dilution; fertilize during active growth.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if needed; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicEucommia ulmoides is considered slightly toxic to cats, primarily due to potential gastrointestinal irritation from ingestion of plant parts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicWhile Eucommia ulmoides is not highly toxic to dogs, ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation due to its fibrous nature and natural compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicEucommia ulmoides is generally considered non-toxic to humans when used in traditional medicine in appropriate doses. However, excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its natural compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in excessive amounts
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Eucommia ulmoides used for?
A: It is primarily used in traditional Chinese medicine for its bark, which is believed to support joint health and lower blood pressure.
Q: Is the sap of Eucommia ulmoides harmful?
A: The sap is non-toxic but can be sticky and may cause minor skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Q: How tall does Eucommia ulmoides grow?
A: It can grow up to 15–20 meters tall in ideal conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Eucommiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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