Wheel Tree Trochodendron aralioides
ABOUT
The wheel tree is an evergreen species that possesses a rich, glossy green foliage. Its leaves are arranged in a whorled pattern, giving rise to the name "wheel" due to the radial arrangement around the branches. Each leaf is broad, with serrated edges that add texture to the plant's profile. During the blooming period, the wheel tree produces clusters of small, inconspicuous flowers that lack petals and are composed of tightly packed stamens, creating a somewhat spherical appearance. After the flowering phase, these blooms give way to round, woody fruits which hang from the branches, adding an additional point of interest to the tree's appearance. The bark of this plant is rough and fissured, often gray-brown in color, contributing further to the plant's visual appeal throughout the seasons. Overall, the wheel tree presents a lush and architectural display, its unique formation of leaves and intriguing fruit making it a visually compelling addition to any garden or landscape where it is grown.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Trochodendraceae
Synonyms
Wheel Tree, Japanese Wheel Tree
Common names
Tetracentron sinense, Trochodendron nastae, Trochodendron thompsonii.
ToxicityTo humans
The wheel tree (Trochodendron aralioides) is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to humans. There is limited information available on its toxicity, suggesting that it is not known to have significant poisonous properties. Consequently, no specific symptoms of poisoning are generally associated with the wheel tree. However, as with any plant, individual allergic reactions or sensitivities are possible, and it is always advisable to avoid ingesting plant material that is not confirmed to be safe for consumption.
To pets
The wheel tree (Trochodendron aralioides) is also not commonly listed as toxic to pets. Like with humans, there is limited information available regarding its toxicity toward animals, which implies that it is not known to have significant poisonous properties. Therefore, no specific symptoms of poisoning in pets from ingesting this plant are generally documented. Nonetheless, caution should be exercised, as individual animals may have different levels of sensitivity, and pets should not be allowed to consume plants not known to be safe.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Greenish
Height
15-20 feet [4.6-6 meters]
Spread
15-20 feet [4.6-6 meters]
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Erosion Control: Trochodendron aralioides, commonly known as wheel tree, has a robust root system that helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The wheel tree is valued for its unique, glossy evergreen leaves and architectural form, making it a decorative addition to landscapes.
- Habitat Support: Provides food and habitat for a variety of wildlife, including birds and insects, thus supporting local biodiversity.
- Shade Provider: Its broad canopy offers shade in gardens and parks, creating cool areas during the warmer months.
- Urban Tolerance: The wheel tree is known to tolerate urban conditions, such as pollution and limited soil space, making it suitable for city environments.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it an appealing choice for both public and private landscapes.
- Seasonal Interest: It produces inconspicuous flowers followed by interesting star-shaped fruit, adding seasonal interest to the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Wheel tree wood is sometimes used in fine woodworking for its even grain and interesting texture, making it suitable for decorative veneer, inlays, and small wood-crafting projects.
- In landscape design, Trochodendron aralioides can serve as a unique focal point due to its rarity and attractive evergreen foliage.
- The wheel tree's dense wood has been used traditionally for creating hand-carved items, including utensils and small sculptures.
- Some cultures have used the bark of the wheel tree for tanning leather due to its tannin content.
- As the plant naturally prefers high humidity environments, it is occasionally used in terrariums to create a miniaturized forest landscape.
- The wheel tree's large leaves are sometimes used in floral arrangements as a long-lasting green element.
- In educational botanical collections, Trochodendron aralioides serves as an example of a relict species, facilitating the study of plant evolution and biodiversity.
- The plant can be utilized in bonsai, though it is a challenge due to its slow-growing nature, offering an opportunity for advanced bonsai practitioners to showcase their skill.
- Bird enthusiasts might employ the wheel tree in their garden as its canopy offers shelter and nesting opportunities for various bird species.
- Due to its evergreen nature and tolerance for shade, wheel tree is used under larger trees or on the north side of buildings where few other plants thrive.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Wheel Tree is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Wheel Tree is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Endurance: The Wheel Tree (Trochodendron aralioides) is an ancient species, suggesting a symbolism of endurance and timelessness.
- Rarity: As a lesser-known species, it symbolizes rarity and uniqueness.
- Adaptation: Its ability to grow in various conditions represents adaptability and resilience in the face of change.
WaterWheel tree's watering needs are moderate. Water the plant deeply once a week, providing it with about 1-2 gallons of water each time. During the growing season, in spring and summer, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. In the fall and winter, reduce watering to when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch – this might mean watering every two weeks, depending on the climate. It's best to water in the morning, allowing the foliage to dry during the day to prevent fungal diseases.
LightWheel tree thrives in partial shade to full sun. It prefers a spot that receives dappled sunlight throughout the day or at least 4 hours of direct sunlight with some afternoon shade. Avoid placing it in an area that receives intense midday sun, as this can cause leaf scorch.
TemperatureThe Wheel tree is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures. It can survive a minimum temperature around 0 degrees Fahrenheit but grows best in areas where the temperature ranges between 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure to protect it from harsh winter winds and extremely high temperatures above 80 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent stress to the plant.
PruningPruning the Wheel tree is primarily for shape and health - removing dead or damaged limbs. It's best to prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Pruning should be done as needed, typically every two to three years, to maintain its natural form and encourage healthy growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilWheel tree thrives in well-draining, humus-rich soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 5.5 and 7.0. A mix of peat, pine bark, and coarse sand or perlite in equal parts can provide the proper aeration and drainage.
RepottingWheel tree should be repotted every 2 to 3 years, or when it becomes root-bound. Spring is the ideal time for repotting to allow for seasonal growth.
Humidity & MistingWheel tree prefers moderate to high humidity levels, typically around 50-60%, which mimics its native woodland habitat.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Wheel tree in bright, indirect light with high humidity.
Outdoor
Plant Wheel tree in dappled shade with shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
Wheel tree is suitable for USDA zones 7-9.
Life cycleThe Wheel Tree (Trochodendron aralioides) starts its life as a seed, which upon finding suitable soil and environmental conditions, germinates to produce a small seedling. The seedling matures into a juvenile plant, exhibiting rapid growth and developing basic structures such as roots, stems, and leaves. As an adult plant, it reaches reproductive maturity, forming unique, star-shaped flower clusters that lack petals, a feature uncommon in angiosperms. After pollination, typically by insects or wind, the flowers develop into dry, inedible fruits that eventually release seeds to propagate the next generation. The Wheel Tree is a slow-growing evergreen, and once mature, can live for many years, continuing the cycle as it produces new flowers and seeds annually. Throughout its life, it experiences periods of active growth in the spring and summer, followed by dormancy in the winter.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
For Wheeler's trochodendron, the most effective and popular method of propagation is through seeds. The best time to collect seeds for propagation is when the fruit ripens, which typically occurs in the fall. To propagate Wheeler's trochodendron from seeds, begin by sowing them in a well-draining seed-starting mix. Cover the seeds lightly with soil, as they need light for germination. Maintain a consistent moisture level in the soil but avoid waterlogging, as this could cause the seeds to rot. It's important to provide a stable environment with temperatures around 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius). Germination can be slow and erratic, sometimes taking several months, so patience is crucial during this process.
