Caucasian Wingnut
Pterocarya fraxinifolia

Family: Juglandaceae

What it is like

Pterocarya fraxinifolia is a deciduous Tree growing to 30 m (98ft) by 20 m (65ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in June, and the seeds ripen from October to December. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 30

Where it is found

Mixed woods near rivers in boggy or inundated places.

W. Asia - Iran and the Caucasus.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

Seed. No more details are given but the seed is very small and would be very fiddly to use.

Seed: includes nuts, cereals, peas and beans.

Medicine

Rating: 1

Diaphoretic.

Diaphoretic: Induces perspiration.

Other

Rating:

The bast from the bark is used for weaving hats etc. Wood - soft, hard to split. Used for matches, shoes etc.

Weaving: Items such as grass and palm leaves that are woven together for making mats, baskets etc. See also Basket making and Fibre.

Wood: A list of the trees and shrubs that are noted for having useful wood.

Scented Plants: Plants noted for their scent

How it is grown

Prefers a sunny position in a rich strong loam with abundant moisture at the roots. Grows well by water. Succeeds in areas that do not experience prolonged winter temperatures below about -12°c, but young plants and the young shoots of older trees can be cut back by winter frosts. A very ornamental tree, it fruits freely in Britain. The leaves are sweetly resinous. The deeply furrowed bark is aromatic. Produces suckers profusely. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus.

Propagating it: Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame. Pre-soak stored seed for 24 hours in warm water then cold stratify for 2 - 3 months. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots as soon as they are large enough to handle and grow them on in the greenhouse for their first winter. Plant them out in late spring or early summer of the following year. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame. Cuttings of mature shoots, November in a frame. Only use vigorous shoots. Layering. Division of suckers in the dormant season.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Canopy;

Habit: Tree

Hardiness: 6-9

Growth:

Soil: Medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

P. caucasia.