Tetracentron

Description

Tetracentron is a genus of deciduous trees that belongs to the family Trochodendraceae. It is native to China and Southeast Asia, and it is commonly found in forests and along streams. The name Tetracentron is derived from Greek words tetra, meaning four, and kentron, meaning point, which refers to the four-pointed leaf shape of the plant.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Tetracentron trees can grow up to 30 meters tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 1 meter. The bark is smooth and gray, with horizontal lenticels. The leaves are four-pointed, with a glossy dark green color on the upper side and a pale green color on the underside. The flowers are small and unisexual, and they grow in clusters. The fruit is a small capsule that contains several seeds.

Care Guide

Water: Tetracentron trees prefer moist but well-drained soil. They should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season, and less frequently during the dormant season.

Fertilization: Tetracentron trees can benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied in early spring.

Soil: Tetracentron trees prefer a slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.0 and 6.5. The soil should be well-drained and rich in organic matter.

Sunlight: Tetracentron trees prefer partial shade to full shade, and they can be grown under larger trees or in a woodland garden.

Hardiness Zones: Tetracentron trees are hardy in USDA zones 7 to 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Tetracentron trees are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be affected by leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot if the soil is too wet or poorly drained.

Habitat

Tetracentron trees are native to China and Southeast Asia, where they grow in forests and along streams. They prefer a cool and moist environment, and they are well adapted to grow in the understory of larger trees.

Question and Answer

Q: What is the meaning of the name Tetracentron?

A: The name Tetracentron is derived from Greek words tetra, meaning four, and kentron, meaning point, which refers to the four-pointed leaf shape of the plant.

Q: Are Tetracentron trees easy to grow?

A: Tetracentron trees are relatively easy to grow, as long as they are planted in a well-drained soil and provided with enough water and shade.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Tetracentron trees?

A: Tetracentron trees are hardy in USDA zones 7 to 9.

Q: Can Tetracentron trees be propagated from cuttings?

A: Tetracentron trees can be propagated from cuttings taken in late summer or early fall. However, the success rate is relatively low.

Related Plants

• Trochodendron aralioides
• Trochodendron nastae
• Trochodendron x yedoense

References

• Dirr, M. A. (2009). Dirr’s Trees and Shrubs for Warm Climates: An Illustrated Encyclopedia. Timber Press.
• Flora of China Editorial Committee. (1999). Flora of China, Vol. 4. Science Press.
• Krüssmann, G. (1984). Manual of Cultivated Broad-Leaved Trees and Shrubs, Vol. 3. Timber Press.