Parrotia

Family: Hamamelidaceae
Common Name: Persian Ironwood

Native to south-western Asia, particularly the area around the Caspian Sea, this genus consists of only one species. It is a lovely, small but spreading tree used as a lawn specimen or in an open position in a woodland garden or shrub border.

Species

P. persica, Persian ironwood or Persian witch-hazel, is a small, deciduous, spreading tree, growing between 6 and 10 m (20–33 ft) tall. It produces dense heads of bright red, petal-less flowers in spring. The 12 cm (5 in) long leaves appear after the flowers, turning brilliant yellow, orange and finally red in autumn.

Cultivation

Grow in well-drained soil in full sun. Sun is essential for obtaining the best autumn foliage colours. Pruning is generally unnecessary beyond initial training to establish one single trunk. Propagate from seed sown in autumn in a garden frame, from semi-ripe cuttings in summer, or by layering in spring.

Climate

Zone 5.