This is an outstanding small tree up to nine metres or more, high with an erect, compact head of branches. Leaves composed of 15-19, normally oblong, sharply toothed leaflets, turning to shades of red, orange, copper and purple in autumn.
The rich autumn tints provide an ideal setting for the clusters of globular fruits, which are creamy in colour at first deepening to amber yellow at maturity, remaining on the branches well after leaf fall.
Its origins are unknown but some consider it is a wild species from China.
This deciduous tree is an ideal plant for the small garden and for street planting as its habit suits restricted spaces, but it should not be confined to those locations as it is very effective also in group planting. |
