- Pick up on site
- novelty
- Pick up on site
Persian ironwood (in 10 liter pot)
Parrotia Persica
The Persian Ironwood , native to Northern Iran, is very rustic -25 °C. This tree of collection expresses all its splendor in bearing one of the most beautiful colored foliage of autumn, it is shaded of yellow-orange, and then turn squarely into bright red.
Description
Height at maturity
8 to 10 m
Wingspan at maturity
5 to 8 m
Exposure
Sun, partial shade
Flowering
February - March
Hardiness
-25°C
Origin
Caucasus - Iran (north)
Persian ironwood – Parrotia persica
Main interest
Parrotia persica is an exceptional tree, renowned for offering one of the most beautiful autumn displays in the plant kingdom. Its nickname “ironwood tree” comes from the remarkable density of its wood, so compact that it sinks in water. But its value goes far beyond robustness: it stands out for its evolving aesthetic throughout the seasons. In winter, it reveals an unexpected flowering of small clusters of scarlet stamens. In spring, its young foliage edged with purple catches the eye. Then in autumn, it transforms into an explosion of warm colours — bright yellow, burnt orange, deep red. With age, its bark peels in multicoloured plates, offering a unique winter decoration. It is an ideal tree for those seeking a rare, solid, year‑round decorative and highly reliable specimen.
Origins and characteristics
Geographical origin:
A relict species from the humid forests of Northern Iran and Azerbaijan, Parrotia persica survived glaciations by taking refuge in the Alborz mountains.
Botanical family:
It belongs to the Hamamelidaceae family, the same as witch hazels and sweetgums, famous for their flamboyant autumn colours.
Notable particularities:
The name Parrotia honours the naturalist Friedrich Parrot. Its extremely hard wood was once used to make parts requiring exceptional resistance.
Description and particularities
Adult height
In cultivation, it generally reaches 8 to 10 m. Its moderate growth makes it easy to integrate into medium‑sized gardens.
Adult width
Its spread ranges from 5 to 8 m. In multi‑stem form, it spreads widely and forms a broad, elegant silhouette.
Habit
The habit is initially bushy and spreading, then becomes more tree‑like with age. Its branches can fuse together when they touch, a rare phenomenon called anastomosis.
Bark
The mature bark exfoliates in irregular plates revealing shades of cream, cinnamon brown and silvery grey. A true decorative asset in the cold season.
Foliage
The leaves, deciduous and slightly corrugated, resemble those of beech. They shift from tender green edged with purple to dark green, then to a spectacular autumn palette.
Growth
Growth is slow to moderate, especially during the first years, while the tree develops dense wood and a solid structure.
Hardiness
Very cold‑resistant, it tolerates temperatures close to -25°C.
Flowering and fruiting
Flowering period
Flowering appears in February–March, before the leaves open.
Description of flowers
The flowers, without petals, consist of bright red stamens surrounded by small brown bracts. They bring colour to late winter.
Fruits
The fruits are small brown capsules, without decorative interest, but appreciated by some birds.
Exposure
Ideal exposure
Full sun is recommended for the best autumn colours. Partial shade is tolerated but reduces colour intensity.
Planting
Soil preparation
A loosened soil enriched with organic matter facilitates rooting. In calcareous soils, adding ericaceous compost can be beneficial.
Spacing
Allow about 6 m around the tree so it can develop freely.
Soil type
It prefers fresh, deep and well‑drained soils. Very calcareous soils may cause chlorosis.
Watering
Water needs
Water regularly during the first two years. Once established, it tolerates short droughts, but a fresh soil improves foliage quality.
Pruning
When and how to prune
Pruning is optional. If necessary, prune in late winter to remove lower branches or crossing shoots.
Propagation
Cuttings are delicate but possible. Layering is possible on young specimens. Seedlings are variable.
Ideal placement
Perfect as a specimen tree, in an ornamental tree border or in a contemporary garden. Its decorative bark makes it a winter focal point.
Recommended plant associations
Witch hazels, Japanese maples, dogwoods, ferns, hydrangeas: plants that appreciate acidic to neutral soils and create a refined atmosphere.
Traditional uses
In its native range, its very hard wood was used to make durable objects. Today it is mainly valued for its ornamental interest.
Pests and diseases
Sensitivities
A very healthy species, rarely affected by disease. Sensitive to calcareous soils and water stress during youth.
Prevention and natural care
Plant in non‑calcareous soil, mulch to maintain freshness, water during prolonged drought.
Tips for good development
Plant in acidic to neutral, well‑drained and bright soil. Avoid calcareous soils to preserve foliage quality.
Differences and specificities of the genus
Parrotia persica stands out for its decorative bark, winter flowering and exceptional autumn foliage. Its slow growth and high hardiness make it easy to integrate into many gardens.
Features
- Common name : Persian ironwood
- Family : Hamamélidaceae
- Category : tree
- Spread : 5 to 8 m
- Foliage : deciduous
- Use : isolated - shruberry
- Soil : slightly acidic
- Habit : Spreading
- Earth to use : 50% universal potting soil and 50% heath earth
- Enemies : nothing to report
- Possible diseases : resistant to diseases
Expédition & livraison
How does the delivery work?
As soon as you place your order your plants are selected
Each order is processed individually.
Plants are packed, staked and labeled.
Packaging is carefully implemented to avoid any problems.
Packages are ready to be shipped.
Customer reviews
Nobody has posted a review yet
in this language
16 other products in the same category:
- Pick up on site
- Pick up on site
- Pick up on site
- Pick up on site
- Out-of-Stock
- Pick up on site
Pink-Flowered Locust Tree (in 10 liter pot)
Robinia Margaretta Georgia da Torino®
Plant height
200/220 cm in 10 liter pot
- Pick up on site
Mountain ash Autumn Spire
Sorbus aucuparia Autumn Spire
Plant height
120/130 cm in 2 liter pot (Grafted plant)
- Pick up on site
Paperbark maple (in 10 liter pot)
Acer Griseum (in 10 liter pot)
Plant height
150/160 cm in 10 liter pot
- Pick up on site
Rose mallow Pink Chiffon
Hibiscus syriacus Pink Chiffon
Plant height
50/60 cm in 3,5 liter pot
- Pick up on site
- Pick up on site
Himalayan White Birch
Betula Utilis Jacquemontii
Plant height
150/160 cm in 2 liter pot (Grafted plant)
- Pick up on site
White currant Zitavia (in 2 liter pot)
Ribes rubrum Zitavia
Plant height
30/40 cm in 2 liter pot
- Pick up on site