Chinese Wingnut Platycarya strobilacea
ABOUT
Platycarya strobilacea, commonly known as the Chinese walnut, is a species that can be recognized by its unique features. The plant exhibits compound leaves, which are arranged in an alternate fashion along the stems. Each leaf comprises numerous leaflets, characterized by their elongated shape with toothed margins, providing a feather-like appearance. The Chinese walnut is notable for its flowers, which present differently in male and female forms. Male flowers develop in elongated catkins, contributing to a drooping aspect, while the female flowers are more compact and structured. As the season progresses, these female flowers give way to cone-like fruit structures reminiscent of those found on walnut trees but more distinctly arranged and visibly different in texture and pattern. The bark of the Chinese walnut is rough, which can offer a tactile experience with its ridges and furrows, often presenting in a grey to brown color palette. New stems can show a smoother and more colorful vibrancy, often displaying hues that can range from green to brown. Lastly, the overall form of the Chinese walnut is shaped by its branching habit, which creates a pleasantly structured canopy. The branches contribute to the plant's aesthetic with their spreading and arching tendencies, giving it a welcoming and often robust appearance.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Juglandaceae.
Synonyms
Chinese Walnut, Japanese Walnut.
Common names
Platycarya strobilacea var. intermedia, Platycarya longipes, Platycarya strobilacea var. longipes, Platycarya tonkinensis, Platycarya chinensis, Alnus strobilacea.
ToxicityTo humans
Chinese hickory (Platycarya strobilacea) does not have widely documented toxicity to humans. There is limited information on the ingestion of any part of this plant by humans causing toxic effects. As with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities can occur, and it is always best to exercise caution and avoid consuming plants that are not commonly recognized as edible.
To pets
Chinese hickory is not commonly reported to be toxic to pets. However, as different animals can react differently to various plants, it is advisable to prevent pets from ingesting plants that are not known to be safe. If a pet ingests Chinese hickory and exhibits unusual symptoms, it would be wise to contact a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Height
20-40 feet (6-12 meters)
Spread
20-30 feet (6-9 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
5-8
Native area
China Korea
Benefits
General Benefits- Erosion Control: Platycarya strobilacea has extensive root systems that help stabilize the soil and prevent erosion.
- Wildlife Habitat: It provides shelter and nesting sites for various species of birds and small mammals.
- Ornamental Value: With its distinctive compound leaves and decorative seed cones, it's often used in landscaping for aesthetic appeal.
- Shade: The tree can offer a cooling shade, making it a beneficial addition to parks and gardens.
- Windbreak: It can act as a windbreak, protecting smaller plants and reducing wind erosion in gardens and farmlands.
- Biodiversity: By introducing Platycarya strobilacea, one can increase the plant diversity in an area, which can have positive ecological impacts.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Woodworking: The wood of Platycarya strobilacea, known as Chinese wingnut, is durable and used for making furniture and other wooden items.
- Fence Material: The strong branches can be woven into living fences or used as durable stakes in gardening and agriculture.
- Dye Production: The bark may be used to produce a dye for textiles, although this use is not as well documented as other traditional dye plants.
- Ornamental Use: The distinctive fruits and attractive foliage make Chinese wingnut a unique choice for ornamental gardens or parks.
- Beekeeping: The pollen produced by the flowers of the Chinese wingnut serves as food for bees and can aid in the health of apiaries.
- Craft Material: The seeds and woody cones can be used in decorative crafts, such as making wreaths or as components in floral arrangements.
- Horticultural Research: Due to its unique properties, Platycarya strobilacea may be used in scientific studies to understand the biology and evolution of nut-bearing trees.
- Soil Erosion Control: With its robust root system, Chinese wingnut can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion in certain landscapes.
- Insect Repellent: The leaves might possess certain compounds that could repel insects, though specific use would require further research and evidence.
- Educational Resource: The plant can serve as a subject for educational purposes for botany students or enthusiast gardeners wanting to learn more about diverse plant species.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chinese wingnut is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chinese wingnut is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Adaptability: Platycarya strobilacea, commonly known as the Chinese walnut, is a resilient plant able to thrive in various soil types, symbolizing the ability to adapt and flourish in different conditions.
- Perseverance: The Chinese walnut is known for its persistent growth and ability to withstand adverse weather, representing determination and the strength to overcome challenges.
- Longevity: As a tree species that can live for many years, the Chinese walnut embodies the concept of longevity and the endurance of life.
- Protection: With its strong wood and robust presence, this tree is often seen as a symbol of protection and shelter, providing a safe haven for various forms of life.
WaterChinese wingnut should be watered deeply and thoroughly, ensuring the water reaches the root zone. It is advisable to water this plant every week with about 1.5 gallons during the growing season, reducing the frequency as the plant goes dormant in the fall and winter. It's important to allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. During hot spells or extended periods of drought, additional watering may be necessary to maintain soil moisture.
LightChinese wingnut thrives best in full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot for this plant would provide it with at least 4 hours of direct sunlight each day, though it can tolerate some light afternoon shade. Too much shade can result in sparser foliage and fewer flowers.
TemperatureChinese wingnut can withstand a broad range of temperatures, from a winter low of around 20°F to a summer high that can exceed 100°F. However, it prefers the cooler end of this spectrum for optimal growth. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60°F and 80°F.
PruningPruning Chinese wingnut helps maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. It's best to prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Typically, it is sufficient to prune this plant every 2 to 3 years, focusing on thinning out overcrowded branches and cutting back any limbs that have outgrown the desired profile.
CleaningAs needed
SoilChinese wingnut (Platycarya strobilacea) thrives best in a soil mix of loamy, well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5, ensuring proper nutrient uptake and root health.
RepottingChinese wingnuts should be repotted every 3-4 years, as they are relatively slow-growing trees and don't require frequent repotting.
Humidity & MistingChinese wingnut prefers moderate humidity levels, but it is quite adaptable and can tolerate a range of humidity conditions common in outdoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light with ample space.
Outdoor
Plant in sun to partial shade, mulch, and shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
5-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Platycarya strobilacea, commonly known as Chinese walnut, begins with seed germination, which requires a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. After germination, the seedling develops into a young plant with a taproot system, which then grows into a mature tree characterized by its pinnate leaves and rough, gray bark. Sexual maturity is reached after several years, with the tree producing separate male and female catkins, following anemophilous (wind) pollination. Successful pollination results in the development of cone-like structures containing seeds. The tree is deciduous, releasing seeds in late summer or fall, which are then dispersed by gravity and animals. The mature Chinese walnut tree can live for many decades, continuously going through annual cycles of growth, reproduction, and dormancy.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The Chinese Pistache (Platycarya strobilacea) is most commonly propagated by seed. The best time to sow seeds is during the fall after the fruits have ripened and seeds have been collected. The collected seeds often benefit from a period of cold stratification, which simulates the natural winter chilling that many seeds undergo to break dormancy. To do this, mix the seeds with moist sand and store them in a refrigerator at a temperature around 35 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit (1.6 to 4.4 degrees Celsius) for approximately two to three months. After stratification, seeds can be sown in pots or beds with well-draining soil. Germination can be irregular, and patience is necessary when growing Chinese Pistache from seed as it may take several weeks for the first sprouts to appear. Once seedlings have grown to a sufficient size, they can be transplanted to their permanent location in the garden.
