Chinese wingnut (Pterocarya stenoptera) is a deciduous tree in the walnut family that will grow from 15 to 21 m tall. Native to China it makes a beautiful shade tree. It blooms from spring to summer with light green pendulous flowers followed by winged seeds that give this tree its common name.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Pterocarya stenoptera is quite similar to P. fraxinifolia. The major difference lies in the shape of the wings on the fruit: reminiscent of the wings of the common fly, they are connected to the two sides of the walnut shaped fruit, which is about the size of a chickpea. The wings lie in two different planes.
The fruits develop in the summer on 25 cm long catkins, hanging from the distinctly differently textured green foliage. The fruiting catkins are frequently considered desirable from a landscaping perspective.
The foliage is dense, though it can be thinned by pruning. The alternate deciduous leaves are pinnately compound, bearing odd numbers of elliptic-oblong pinnately-veined leaflets with serrate margins. The bark on the trunk is similar to P. fraxinifolia, but is smoother.
The tree grows rapidly under optimal conditions, easily reaching 70 feet with substantial spreading branches. One tree in Raleigh grew to 25 feet in only six years, with a trunk diameter of fourteen inches. Trunk diameters as large as eight feet have been reported. The USDA rates this tree as being appropriate in zones 6B – 11.
Pterocarya stenoptera propagates readily from seed that has received approximately three months of cold moist stratification. Germination is epigeal and typically requires a little more than ten days. The first true (pinnately compound) leaves appear after the seedling reaches a height of ~6 cm. The young seedlings do well under half-shade and a temperature of ~18 °C (64 °F).
Pterocarya stenoptera can also be propagated by cuttings.
II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight
Chinese wingnut thrives in conditions where it can receive full sunlight, as this intensity of light is crucial for its optimal growth and development. The plant is highly adaptable and can tolerate various light levels, though insufficient light may result in stunted growth or less vigorous foliage. With robust growth in adequate light, chinese wingnut exhibits healthy characteristics like lush leaves and a strong structure.
When planted outdoors, it should be positioned in spots that are not overshadowed by larger trees or structures to ensure it receives the ample light it needs. Specifically well-suited for open areas or along water bodies, chinese wingnut can become a magnificent specimen in a landscape when its light requirements are met.
Watering
Chinese wingnut thrives in environments that mimic its native habitat, which is typically along riverbanks with ample moisture. This species has adapted to be moderately drought-tolerant but prefers consistent moisture for optimal growth.
Watering should occur once every two weeks, aligning with its ability to withstand brief dry periods. Typically grown outdoors due to its size and water-loving nature, chinese wingnut benefits from a location where it can receive natural rainfall, complementing scheduled watering and contributing to its robust growth during the active season.
Soil
Chinese wingnut is adaptable to a variety of soil types but benefits from a fertile, well-draining medium.
Fertilizing
For Chinese wingnut, use balanced nutrition fertilizers with equal NPK ratios during the growing season for overall health, then high nitrogen formulations in early spring to boost leaf growth. Fertilize monthly in spring and summer, reducing to once in early fall. Apply 1 cup per inch of trunk diameter, avoiding over-application to prevent root burn. Proper fertilization ensures vigorous growth, enhances tree stability, and supports the prolific nature of chinese wingnut.
Adapting to chinese wingnut’s growth stage and seasonal changes is vital; decrease frequency as dormancy approaches. Always water chinese wingnut thoroughly after fertilizing to aid absorption and mitigate salt buildup.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain shape and remove any dead or diseased branches.
Propagation
Chinese wingnut thrives when its seeds are sown in well-draining soil, placed in a location where they can receive ample sunlight. Pre-treating the seeds by soaking them in water for 24 hours aids in enhancing germination rates. Once sown, maintain consistent moisture levels until germination has occurred. When seedlings are strong enough to handle, transplanting them into individual pots will allow for more controlled growth before eventually planting them in their final outdoor location. Taking proper care during the sowing and early growth stages is crucial for healthy development.
Transplanting
The optimal timeframe for relocating chinese wingnut is the gentle warmth of late spring, ensuring a blend of ample growth time and mild weather. Ideally, select a sunny site with well-drained soil to encourage prosperous growth. Note that young chinese wingnut are more adaptable and establish quicker.
III. Uses and Benefits
Chinese wingnut is used in East Asian classical garden design.
