Chinese Parrotia
parrotia subaequalis
Also known as: ["Chinese Witch Hazel"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to China, valued for its attractive bark, autumn foliage, and unique flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","seasonal color change","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Hamamelidaceae |
| Genus: | Parrotia |
| Botanical Name: | Parrotia subaequalis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates a range of soil types.
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 necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight in spring and summer, reduce in fall and winter.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Test soil pH annually; amend as needed; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–8; tolerates temperatures from -20°F to 90°F; prefers cool winters and warm summers.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to maintain natural form.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage airflow.
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; ensure drainage holes are present.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
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 morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away 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 for fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; ensure organic matter is well-mixed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold; stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn yellow or brown; branches can become brittle; overall growth may slow or stop.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; avoid planting in exposed areas; wrap trunks with burlap in severe cold.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature leaf drop; reduced flowering or fruiting.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage; use appropriate fertilizer; follow dilution instructions; monitor for signs of nutrient excess/deficiency.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid fertilizing in late fall or winter; dilute liquid fertilizers to half strength if used.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicParrotia subaequalis is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicParrotia subaequalis is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicParrotia subaequalis is not known to exhibit any toxic properties to humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Parrotia subaequalis have fragrant flowers?
A: No, its flowers are not fragrant but are unique in appearance.
Q: Is this plant suitable for small gardens?
A: Yes, it can be pruned to fit smaller spaces, though it naturally grows into a medium-sized tree.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full sun, adapting well to various light conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Hamamelidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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