Cyclocarya

Description

Cyclocarya is a deciduous tree native to China and belongs to the family of Juglandaceae. It is commonly known as the sweet tea tree, because of its unique sweet and nutritious leaves. The tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a smooth, light gray bark that peels off in patches. The leaves are compound, with 5-9 leaflets, and can grow up to 30 centimeters long. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in spring, which develop into small, round nuts that are edible.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Cyclocarya has a beautiful appearance, making it an excellent ornamental tree. The tree has a pyramidal or oval-shaped crown, with a dense foliage of compound leaves. The leaves are green and glossy, with a distinct sweet fragrance. The bark of the tree is smooth and light gray, which peels off in patches as the tree grows. The nuts of the tree are small and round, with a hard shell and a sweet, nutty flavor.

Care Guide

Cyclocarya is a hardy tree that can grow in a wide range of soils and climates. However, to ensure optimal growth and health, the following care tips are recommended:

• Water: Water the tree regularly, especially during the first year of growth. Cyclocarya prefers moist but well-drained soil.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year, in early spring, with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilization, as this can damage the tree.
• Soil: Cyclocarya prefers fertile, well-drained soil. If the soil is too alkaline, add sulfur to lower the pH.
• Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
• Hardiness Zones: Cyclocarya is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Cyclocarya is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, the tree may occasionally be affected by the following:

• Aphids: These small insects can damage the leaves of the tree, causing them to curl and turn yellow. Use insecticidal soap to control aphids.
• Webworms: These caterpillars can defoliate the tree, causing significant damage. Control webworms by pruning affected branches and using insecticides.
• Root Rot: This fungal disease can affect the roots of the tree, causing the tree to wilt and die. Control root rot by planting the tree in well-drained soil and avoiding over-watering.

Habitat

Cyclocarya is native to China and can be found growing in the wild in the provinces of Jiangsu, Anhui, Zhejiang, and Fujian. The tree prefers well-drained soil and can grow in a wide range of climates, from temperate to subtropical.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Cyclocarya a fast-growing tree?

A: No, Cyclocarya is a slow-growing tree that can take several years to reach maturity.

Q: Can the nuts of Cyclocarya be eaten?

A: Yes, the nuts of Cyclocarya are edible and have a sweet, nutty flavor.

Q: Does Cyclocarya have any medicinal properties?

A: Yes, the leaves of Cyclocarya have been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat diabetes and other health conditions.

Q: Can Cyclocarya be propagated from cuttings?

A: Yes, Cyclocarya can be propagated from softwood or hardwood cuttings taken in early spring or late summer.

Related Plants

• Juglans nigra (Black Walnut)
• Juglans regia (English Walnut)
• Carya illinoinensis (Pecan)
• Carya ovata (Shagbark Hickory)

References

• Li, L., & Sun, Y. (2016). Cyclocarya paliurus (Batal.) Iljinskaja: A review of its traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and quality control. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 194, 649-666.
• Moretti, C. L., & Mattos, J. R. (2014). Cyclocarya paliurus: a new nut tree for the world. HortScience, 49(10), 1231-1235.
• Wu, C. J., Jia, X. D., Li, X. Y., Xu, L. J., Li, X. Y., Li, J. F., & Li, Y. X. (2012). Chemical constituents from Cyclocarya paliurus leaves and their bioactivities. Chinese Journal of Natural Medicines, 10(6), 0436-0440.