Chinese wingnut
Pterocarya stenoptera
Family: Juglandaceae
What it is like
Pterocarya stenoptera is a deciduous Tree growing to 20 m (65ft) by 15 m (49ft). 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): 20
Where it is found
Mixed deciduous forests on mountain slopes or riverbanks, often forming pure stands in small patches in the openings of deciduous oak forests, from sea level to 1500 metres.
E. Asia - China.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 2
Anthelmintic, astringent, febrifuge, stomachic. The leaves are used in the treatment of abscesses, eczema and scabies. The stem bark is anthelmintic and carminative.
Anthelmintic: Expels parasites from the gut.
Astringent: Produces contraction in living tissue, reducing the flow of secretions and discharges of blood, mucus, diarrhoea etc.
Eczema: Used in the treatment of eczema - a chronic health condition that affects the skin, causing redness, dryness, itching and infections.
Febrifuge: Reduces fevers.
Skin: Plants used in miscellaneous treatments for the skin.
Stomachic: Aids and improves the action of the stomach.
Other
Rating:
The leaves have insecticidal properties.
Insecticide: Kills insects.
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. 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. Plants are tolerant of compacted soils. The leaves are resinous to the touch and emit a resinous aroma. The root system of this tree is too invasive for small gardens. 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