Geographic origin: South West Asia
Adult dimensions: Height up to 20 m
Foliage: Deciduous.
Type of soil: Rich and moist
Hardiness: Hardy to -10°C. Protect from cold winds
Exposure: Full sun.
Characteristics and uses:
The Firmiana Simplex, or Chinese Parasol Tree, is unusual and not well-known in Europe.
Its lobed leaves are large, they can measure up to 30cm, so it makes for a great shade tree.
From spring to summer, the branch tips are covered in clusters of tiny white flowers. Depending on the warmth, the flowers could develop a lemony fragrance.
The tree's bark is smooth and hard. Chinese Percussion instruments are made out of its wood. Young plants can be grown as Bonsai.
Although cold resistant, do protect the foot of the plant with mulch in colder regions.