Isu Tree Distylium racemosum

Names

• Synonyms

  Winter Hazel, Isu Tree, Evergreen Witch Hazel

• Common names

  Distylium racemosum.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Distylium racemosum, commonly known as Isu tree, is not widely recognized as a poisonous plant to humans. There is limited information available on its toxicity, and it does not appear to be known for causing significant toxic effects upon ingestion. As with any plant, individual sensitivities can vary, and some people might experience mild stomach upset if ingested in large quantities. However, it's generally not regarded as a toxic species that would cause serious harm or symptoms of poisoning to humans under normal circumstances.

• To pets

  Isu tree, or Distylium racemosum, is not widely known to be toxic to pets either. It does not appear on the common lists of plants that are poisonous to dogs, cats, or other domestic animals. With a lack of reports of toxicity, it is unlikely that the Isu tree would cause significant harm to pets if ingested. However, it is always possible for individual pets to have a sensitivity to any plant, potentially resulting in mild gastrointestinal upset similar to humans. Without specific toxicity information, vigilance is advised, but there are no well-documented toxic consequences associated with pets ingesting this plant.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Evergreen

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Red

• Height

  3-4 feet (0.91-1.22 meters)

• Spread

  4-5 feet (1.22-1.52 meters)

• Plant type

  Shrub

• Hardiness zones

  7

• Native area

  China

General Benefits

• Drought tolerance: Distylium racemosum, also known as Isu tree, is able to withstand periods of drought once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping or gardens with low water availability.
• Cold hardiness: This plant is cold hardy, meaning it can tolerate low winter temperatures, making it suitable for planting in various climates.
• Pest resistance: Isu tree is generally resistant to pests, reducing the need for chemical pesticides and creating a healthier garden ecosystem.
• Disease resistance: It has good resistance to common plant diseases, ensuring a robust and less maintenance-intensive landscape.
• Low maintenance: Distylium racemosum requires minimal pruning and care once established, which saves time and effort for gardeners.
• Attractive foliage: With its glossy, evergreen leaves, the Isu tree adds year-round interest and color to the landscape.
• Adaptable to various soils: The Isu tree is versatile and can thrive in a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand, provided the soil is well-draining.
• Erosion control: Its root system can help stabilize slopes and prevent soil erosion, making it a practical choice for challenging garden sites.
• Versatility in landscaping: The Isu tree can be utilized in a variety of landscaping designs, including hedges, foundation plantings, and as a specimen plant.
• Winter interest: It produces subtle red flowers in the winter, adding seasonal interest when many other plants are dormant.

Medical Properties

• Anti-inflammatory: Distylium racemosum has been reported to possess anti-inflammatory properties that could help in reducing inflammation.
• Antioxidant: The plant may contain antioxidant compounds which can scavenge free radicals, potentially preventing or reducing oxidative stress.
• Antimicrobial: Some studies suggest that components found in Distylium racemosum can have antimicrobial effects against certain bacteria and fungi.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Winter Hazel can be used as a bonsai plant due to its attractive form and evergreen leaves, providing a unique option for enthusiasts seeking a less common species for this ancient art.
• The wood of Winter Hazel is dense and can be utilized for making small wooden tools or carved objects, though the plant is not typically grown for timber.
• As a landscaping plant, Winter Hazel provides year-round greenery and can be used in mass plantings for erosion control on slopes or banks.
• The shrub can serve as a privacy screen or hedge, as it grows densely and can be pruned to maintain a desired shape and size.
• Winter Hazel's rust-resistant characteristics mean it can be used in plantings where fungal diseases are a concern, particularly in humid or wet regions.
• The plant's reddish new growth provides ornamental interest in landscape designs, with foliage that changes color throughout the seasons.
• In larger gardens, the Winter Hazel can be planted as an understory shrub, providing habitat and forage for wildlife, such as birds and small mammals.
• Gardeners interested in creating a winter garden can use Winter Hazel for its late winter blooms that add subtle beauty during the colder months.
• This plant can be incorporated into rain gardens, as it tolerates wet conditions and can help manage stormwater runoff.
• Due to its adaptability to different soil types, Winter Hazel is a useful species for reclaiming and greening urban spaces that have been affected by construction or pollution.

Feng Shui

The Distylium is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Distylium is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Resilience: Distylium racemosum, commonly known as the Isu tree, is a hardy and versatile plant, often symbolizing the ability to withstand tough conditions and adversity.
• Longevity: The Isu tree has a long lifespan, which is why it is often associated with endurance and the passage of time.
• Evergreen Nature: As an evergreen plant, the Isu tree represents perpetual life as well as hope and immortality, as it remains green throughout the seasons.
• Adaptability: Given its ability to adapt to various soil types and environments, the Isu tree is often seen as a symbol of flexibility and the capacity to thrive in different circumstances.