Intersting smooth green and gray bark and the large, tropical-looking leaves of Chinese parasol tree are lovely, especially when contrasted by the wispy sprays of flowers in summer. A fast growing deciduous tree from Southeast Asia, from Vietnam eastward to the southern islands of Japan, it develops an upright, rounded canopy. Its leaves are large, dark green and have three to seven lobes. In summer the green branch tips are covered in thinly branched panicles, or clusters of its tiny, yellow-green flowers. These panicles are large and noticeable. After insects and wind combine for pollination, large yellow-green, papery fruits grow, eventually opening up like a four-part flower to reveal the dangling brown seeds. The fall foliage color is yellow.
The Chinese parasol tree should be planted in full sun and soil that is moist, relatively fertile and well-drained. Do protect this soft-wooded tree from drying winds, especially in winter when cold temps can cause considerable branch dieback. It makes for a great shade or street tree, but even in tropical regions this tree will become deciduous for part of the year.
In some regions with mild winters and moist summer soils, the Chinese parasol tree has become invasive. The shed seeds quickly germinate and shade out competing plants. Thus, investigate if there are any restrictions on this tree's use in the landscape before choosing to plant. (info source: Learn2Grow.com)
Genus - Firmiana
Species - Simplex
Common name - Chinese Parasol Tree
Pre-Treatment - Required
Hardiness zones - 7 - 15
Height - 30'-45' / 9 - 13 m
Spread - 25'-30' / 7 - 9 m
Plant type - Large Shrub / Small Tree
Vegetation type - Deciduous
Exposure - Full Sun, Partial Shade
Growth rate - Medium
Soil PH - Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
Soil type - Clay, Loam, Sand, Well Drained
Water requirements - Average water needs. Water regularly, do not over water
Landscape uses - Shade Trees, Street Trees
Germination rate - 70%
Bloom season - Early Summer, Summer
Leaf / Flower color - Green / Light Yellow, Yellow Green
Useful Info | |
Germination | Soak for 24 hours in very warm. Mix with vermiculite or another sterile / clean peat, sand or soil and stratify in the fridge at +2-+4C for 60 days. It will increase the germination percentage. After the treatment, sow 5 mm deep. Usually germinates within 2 months. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Consider giving the plants some protection from the cold for at least their first winter outdoors. |