Japanese Wingnut
Pterocarya rhoifolia
Family: Juglandaceae
What it is like
Pterocarya rhoifolia is a deciduous Tree growing to 30 m (98ft 5in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 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
Valleys and mountains all over Japan. Wet areas along riverbanks and mountain streams in eastern Shandong, China.
E. Asia - China, Japan.
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: 0
Other
Rating:
Wood - light, soft, not easily cracked. Used for clogs, chopsticks etc.
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. 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. The leaves are aromatic when bruised. 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: 5-9
Growth:
Soil: Medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist