Family: Juglandaceae
Common Name: Wingnut

This is a small genus of ten species of deciduous, ornamental trees native to the Caucasus and several parts of Asia. Most are fast growing. They are grown for their very attractive, pinnate foliage and the long, pendulous strings of winged nuts which are carried over much of the summer. Although adaptable to a range of soils and growing conditions, their roots are shallow and sometimes produce suckers.

Species

P. fraxinifolia, Caucasian wingnut, grows to 30 m (100 ft) in its native habitat but in cultivation will more likely be 12-15 m (40-50 ft). The long leaves are made up of numerous leaflets and the long strings of winged nuts that develop after the flowers have fallen are suspended on long, string-like stems that can be 45 cm (18 in) long.

P. stenoptera, Chinese wingnut, also grows to around 30 m (100 ft) high in its native China, but about half that in cultivation. It also has long, compound leaves, and its winged nuts are carried on stems about 30 cm (12 in) long.

Cultivation

Suitable for most soils, they do best in deep, fertile soils that are kept reasonably moist in summer. Regular summer watering is essential. Trees can be propagated from seed, suckers, or by layering.

Climate

Best in cool, moist climates. Zone 7.