Parrotia Persica 3-3.5"

Latin Name: Parrotia persica

Common Name: Persian Ironwood / Persian Parrotia

Zones: 4-8 (some sources list 5-8)

Height & Spread: 20-40 feet tall, spreading 15-30 feet wide (often much smaller for the first decade, as it is slow-growing)

Descriptive Features: A graceful, four-season small to medium deciduous tree and Missouri Botanical Garden Plant of Merit, native to northern Iran and the Caucasus, in the witch hazel family. Grows as a single-trunked specimen or a multi-stemmed large shrub, with a rounded to dome-shaped crown and spreading branches. In late winter to early spring, small clusters of dense red stamens appear on bare branches before the leaves, interesting up close though not showy from a distance. Glossy leaves emerge reddish-purple, mature to dark, lustrous green, and put on an exceptional fall show in shades of yellow, orange, red, and burgundy, often several colors on one tree. As the tree matures, the bark exfoliates in patches to reveal a mosaic of gray, green, white, and tan that provides outstanding winter interest. Grows best in full sun to part shade in average, slightly acidic, medium-moisture, well-drained soil, and is tolerant of clay, urban conditions, and moderate drought once established. Notably pest- and disease-free, and low-maintenance. Tolerance to road salt is uncertain, so avoid planting where de-icing salts are used. Named cultivars include the narrow, upright ‘Vanessa’ and Persian Spire™. An excellent choice as a specimen, lawn or patio tree, or accent in groups and mixed borders in full sun to part shade.