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Persian ironwood tree with autumnal leaves, Parrotia persica

How to grow Parrotia persica

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Flowers

How to grow Parrotia persica

Grow Persian ironwood in full sun or partial shade, in moist but free-draining soil. It does not require pruning, but it may benefit from a light prune in winter to get rid of dead or damaged branches.

Where to grow Parrotia persica

Like strawberries in chocolate cups...the small red flowers of Parrotia persica. This is a shrub / tree belonging to the witch hazel family, a family that includes many other winter- and winter / early spring-blooming shrubs and trees. It is native to the northern Alborz mountains of Iran (formerly Persia), explaining the common name Persian ironwood. The flowers have no petals - it is the bright red stamens that make up dense, spherical clusters, and appear before the leaves along the bare branches in winter and early spring. — *Parrotia persica* produces dense heads of red flowers in late winter and early spring. Getty Images

Parrotia persica can be grown in an exposed or sheltered spot, in full sun or partial shade. It is hardy, although frost can damage flower buds in spring.

How to plant Parrotia persica

You can plant Persian ironwood at any time of year. Dig a hole that's the same depth as the root mass, but twice as wide. Remove the tree from its pot and loosen the roots slightly before planting. Place the tree in the hole and ensure that it sits no deeper than it was sitting in the pot. When you're happy with its position, fill the hole and firm the soil gently. Water the tree generously, particularly if planting in the summer, and add a stake.

How to care for Parrotia persica

Parrotia persica tree, multicolored foliage in autumn in a garden — *Parrotia persica* early autumnal foliage. Getty Images

Keep your tree well watered during the first few months after planting, especially in dry periods. Once the tree is established it will require very little care.

How to propagate Parrotia persica

Propagate Persian ironwood by taking softwood cuttings in summer, or semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer and early autumn. Both cuttings are taken from this year's growth.

How to prune Parrotia persica

Parrotia persica does not require regular pruning. It will naturally form an attractive shape, so a light pruning is only required if you wish to remove dead or diseased branches. Avoid harsh pruning.

Growing Parrotia persica: pests and diseases

Persian ironwood is not susceptible to any pests or diseases. Frost may damage flower buds in early spring.

Advice on buying Parrotia persica

Parrotia persica may be available from your local garden centre or nursery, but you will have more options online.
Always check plants for signs of damage or disease before planting.