Species wheel tree

wheel tree

Trochodendron aralioides

The wheel tree (Trochodendron aralioides) is a deciduous or semi-evergreen tree native to East Asia, specifically Korea, Japan, and China. It can grow up to 60 feet tall and is distinguished by its large, round leaves and fragrant white flowers. Its edible fruits are a dark purple color and have a sweet aroma. The wood of the tree is also popular for its use in furniture, flooring, and other objects. Its constant growth pattern, with new foliage coming at the center of its trunk like a wheel turning, is also what gives it its unusual name.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Air Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Cutting,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

6 - 7

Flowers:

Yellow-green Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

The wheel tree (Trochodendron aralioides) should be watered about 1-2 times per week, depending on the season. In the warmer months, watering should take place every 1-2 days, while in the cooler months it should be about once every 4-7 days. It is important to water deeply and thoroughly, saturating the soil and allowing excess water to completely drain out of the bottom of the pot. When watering, make sure not to wet the foliage, as this could cause damage or even death of the plant.

sunlight

The wheel tree (Trochodendron aralioides) is native to areas of Japan, North Korea, and China, and they are adapted to moderate climates. It is a deciduous tree that thrives in full sun but can also tolerate a moderate amount of shade. In ideal conditions, the wheel tree should get at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. During the spring and summer, it may be able to tolerate more sun, up to 8 to 10 hours per day. During the winter months, however, the wheel tree will benefit from getting at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight. In addition, protecting the tree from strong winds and extreme winter temperatures will help keep your tree healthy.

pruning

Wheel tree should be pruned just after flowering to keep its shape and size in control. It can tolerate hard pruning so it is best to prune it back heavily once a year in the late winter or early spring when the plant is dormant. When pruning, it is best to remove up to 1/3 of the previous year's growth, as this will help to keep the plant from becoming overly large. It may also be necessary to thin out older branches or remove dead wood to encourage healthier regrowth. As a general rule, prune wheel tree to maintain an open, spreading habit and take care not to over prune or damage the plant.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Wheel tree typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map