Distylium racemosum
Evergreen witch hazel Β· Isu tree Β· Isunoki
Description
Source: wikipedia (CC BY-SA)Distylium racemosum, the isu tree, is a species of flowering plant in the family Hamamelidaceae. It is native to subtropical eastern Asia; central and southern Japan, the Ryukyu Islands, South Korea, southeastern China, Taiwan, Hainan, and northern Vietnam. There are a number of cultivars, including 'Guppy' and the variegated 'Akebono'.
Care Guide
π§ Water
The isu tree thrives in an environment with balanced moisture and can tolerate moderate drought. It prefers consistent humidity and benefits from being watered every two weeks. Although it is primarily cultivated outdoors, the isu tree adapts well to various climates, making it a resilient choice for water-efficient landscapes.
How should I water my Isu tree?
Your Isu tree is not particular about how you water it, so you can use any common watering tool such as watering cans, hoses, and cups. When watering, it's best to apply the water directly to the soil, making sure to evenly moisten all areas. Using filtered water is preferable, as tap water may contain harmful particles. Additionally, using water that is at or slightly above room temperature is recommended to prevent shocking the Isu tree. Nevertheless, the Isu tree typically responds well to any type of water.
What should I do if I give my Isu tree too much water or too little water?
Outdoor plants, especially newly planted ones or seedlings, are prone to not getting enough water. It's important to continue watering them regularly for a few months until the tree is established. Once the roots are strong, the tree can rely on rainwater. When you have an Isu tree planted in a pot, be careful not to overwater it. If you accidentally overwater, take immediate action to fix the situation. Stop watering the plant right away to minimize the impact of overwatering. Then, take the tree out of its pot and check its roots. If there is no root rot, you can put the plant back in the container. However, if you find root rot, trim away the affected roots and consider using a fungicide to prevent further damage. Finally, repot the Isu tree in well-draining soil. On the other hand, if you underwater your Isu tree, simply increase your watering frequency. Underwatering is easily fixed by providing sufficient water. When underwatered, the plant's leaves will droop, dry out, and may fall off. After a proper watering, the leaves will regain their fullness. So, correct your watering schedule promptly if you notice underwatering.
How frequently should I give water to my Isu tree?
Most outdoor plants can rely on rainfall for their water needs. However, if you live in an area with limited rainfall, you should water your plants adequately every 2 weeks in the spring and fall. In the summer, you will need to water them more frequently. During winter, when the plants grow slower and require less water, you should water them sparingly. In fact, you may not need to water them at all during the winter. If your Isu tree is young or newly planted, it requires more frequent watering to help it establish and grow into a more adaptable and drought-tolerant plant. When it comes to potted plants, there are two main approaches for determining how often to water your Isu tree. The first method is following a set watering schedule, such as once a week or every other week. However, keep in mind that this approach may not consider the unique growing conditions of your Isu tree. Alternatively, you can adjust your watering frequency based on the moisture level of the soil. It is typically best to wait until the top two to four inches of soil, or about β to Β½ the depth of the pot, have dried out completely before giving more water. Please note that during the summer, when your Isu tree's water needs are highest, a predetermined watering schedule may not be sufficient.
How much water does my Isu tree require?
To water your Isu tree effectively, remember that it doesn't always require a large amount of water. If the soil has only dried a few inches since the last watering, providing five to ten ounces of water will support healthy growth. You can also gauge the water volume by assessing soil moisture. Take note of how many inches of soil have dried between waterings. To ensure your Isu tree receives enough moisture, water it until all the dry soil layers since the last watering are moistened. If over half the soil has dried out, it may be necessary to give more water than usual. In such cases, continue watering until you see excess water draining from the pot's holes. If your Isu tree is planted in an area that receives sufficient rain, it may not need additional watering. When the tree is young or establishing, provide 1-2 inches of rain per week. As it grows and becomes established, it can rely solely on rainwater. Only during hot weather without rainfall for 2-3 weeks should you consider giving your Isu tree a full watering to prevent it from experiencing stress.
How can I know if I'm giving my Isu tree enough water?
The Isu tree is more often affected by overwatering, which can be identified by yellowing leaves and leaf drop. Overwatering can also cause the plant to shrivel and lead to root rot. On the other hand, an underwatered Isu tree will start to wilt and its leaves may turn brown or become brittle. Regardless of whether you see signs of overwatering or underwatering, it is important to take action and restore the tree's health.
βοΈ Light Partial sun
The isu tree grows best with a moderate amount of sunlight, although it can tolerate brighter light. Native to areas that offer a balance of sun and shade, these trees are adapted to a variety of lighting conditions. Excessive or insufficient sun exposure can influence their growth and overall health.
How much sunlight does the Isu tree need to grow?
The Isu tree needs 3-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. However, it should also have some shade during the hottest parts of the day to avoid sun damage. Morning sunlight works best for the Isu tree, but it can handle some afternoon sun if it's not too hot. To ensure the right amount of sunlight, consider planting the Isu tree in a partially sunny spot, like under a tree or on the east side of a building.
What happens if the Isu tree doesn't get enough sunlight?
To avoid sun damage to the Isu tree, it's important to protect it from excessive direct sunlight. This can cause the leaves to turn yellow, dry out, or even burn, and the plant may also become wilted or stunted. To prevent this, provide some shade to the Isu tree during the hottest times of the day. This can be achieved by using a shade cloth or planting the Isu tree near taller plants that can provide natural shade.
What will happen if the Isu tree gets too much sunlight?
The Isu tree may become tall and lanky with not enough sunlight, resulting in sparse foliage. Additionally, the leaves may turn yellow or pale green if the plant lacks sunlight to produce enough chlorophyll. To fix this issue, consider moving the Isu tree to a sunnier location or trim nearby foliage to increase the amount of light reaching the plant.
π‘οΈ Temperature 15β35Β°C
The Isu tree is native to regions with temperate temperatures, specifically from 59 to 95 Β°F (15 to 35 β). Care should be taken to reproduce these temperature conditions for optimal growth.
What temperature is best for an Isu tree?
The ideal temperature for the Isu tree to thrive is between 65-80β (18-27β). During the main growing phase, it can tolerate temperatures as high as 95β (35β) and as low as 15β (-10β). It is a hardy species that can survive freezing winters. Here are the recommended temperature ranges: ideal (65-80β or 18-27β), highest (85-95β or 30-35β), and lowest (-5-15β or -20 to -10β) or below.
Should I change the temperature for the Isu tree when it is growing in different stages?
The research indicates that the Isu tree tends to show stunted growth in warmer temperatures, particularly when it is developing axillary buds and main shoots. To promote healthy growth after germination or transplanting, it is advisable to maintain a consistent and cooler temperature of around 65β (18β).
How do I make sure the Isu tree stays warm during cold seasons?
The Isu tree can handle cold temperatures as long as it is in the ground in areas that don't drop below 15β(-10β) during winter. However, if it is in a pot or container, its roots need to be protected from the cold. You can do this by wrapping the container in a blanket or bringing it indoors for complete protection.
If the temperature gets too high or too low, what harm will happen to the Isu tree?
If the temperature is consistently too high rather than too low, it will cause greater harm to the Isu tree. When the Isu tree gets too hot, it experiences heat stress which triggers hormones, leading to reduced seed germination and photosynthesis efficiency. This can be seen through wilting, leaf browning, and potentially even death. On the other hand, if the Isu tree gets too cold, it stops performing essential functions like nutrient uptake and photosynthesis. This can eventually result in the death of the plant. Additionally, if there is a freezing event during the growing season, it could cause a membrane phase transition, leading to a halt in plant functions and ultimately causing the death of the plant.
What should I remember about temperature when taking care of an Isu tree?
To ensure the health of the Isu tree and promote successful budding, flowering, and new growth, it is crucial to maintain a consistent soil temperature. This can be achieved by regularly watering the tree, using mulch to cover any exposed soil, and planting it in a shaded area.
π¨ Humidity
πͺ΄ Soil 5-7
π± Fertilizer
Timing is essential for fertilizing an Isu tree. Start in early spring and repeat the fertilization monthly until early summer. Fertilizer promotes lovely blooms and supplies energy during both dormant and active growth phases.
Why should I put fertilizer on my Isu tree?
Fertilizing your Isu tree has several important benefits. Firstly, it helps produce beautiful blooms by providing the necessary nutrients. For optimal results, it is recommended to fertilize in early spring. Secondly, fertilizer supplies the tree with ample energy that it can store in the ground during dormant phases. By giving your Isu tree additional nutrients in the fall planting or late spring, it can store more energy to use when it becomes actively growing again.
When should I put fertilizer on my Isu tree?
To achieve the best results, it is important to time the fertilization of Isu trees correctly. Applying fertilizer too early, while the tree is still dormant, is ineffective as the rainwater will wash it away, causing waste and pollution. Ideally, the first application of fertilizer should be made in early spring. After that, fertilize the tree once a month until early summer.
When is it a good idea to not put fertilizer on my Isu tree?
To ensure optimal growth of the Isu tree, it is important to carefully consider the timing and type of fertilizer used. Firstly, avoid using a fertilizer with excessive nitrogen content, as this can result in an abundance of leaves but limited blooming. Instead, opt for a fertilizer that has a lower nitrogen level in comparison to other nutrients. Furthermore, it is advisable to refrain from fertilizing the Isu tree during the late autumn months, right before winter sets in. Fertilizing during this time can cause vigorous growth that may struggle to survive in the cold weather. Additionally, it is best to avoid fertilizing the Isu tree when the weather is hot and dry. Dry soil does not effectively deliver nutrients, and fertilizing during this period can stimulate growth that requires additional water, which may not be readily available. Ideally, it is recommended to apply fertilizer earlier in the season when temperatures are cooler. This allows the Isu tree to absorb the nutrients more effectively without the risk of overstimulation. Lastly, it is important to be mindful of inadvertent double-dosing of fertilizer. The Isu tree can absorb fertilizer from nearby plants or lawns, so it is crucial to exercise caution and prevent unintentional over-fertilization.
What kind of plant food does my Isu tree need?
To ensure the optimal growth of an Isu tree, gardeners should use a fertilizer that has a balanced mix of three main plant nutrients, with a slightly higher proportion of phosphorus. Alternatively, they can enhance the tree's soil by adding organic materials like compost, worm castings, or manure. Experienced gardeners may choose to supplement with water-soluble fertilizers containing phosphorus once or twice when the flower buds appear. This will promote better flower development, resulting in larger and longer-lasting blooms. There are various forms of fertilizers available, but liquid or powdered fertilizers are considered the best for Isu trees. Regardless of the form chosen, it is important to dilute the fertilizer and apply it while watering the tree.
How should I fertilize my Isu tree?
To ensure proper fertilization for your Isu tree, it's crucial to follow the directions for the specific fertilizer type and conduct some research. Over-fertilizing should be avoided, hence it's important to determine the correct amount to use. One way to estimate this is by considering the age of the tree or the diameter of the trunk. Generally, you can use one-tenth of a pound of fertilizer per year or per inch of trunk, with a maximum of one pound. When it comes to applying granular or organic fertilizers like blood meal, you should sprinkle the substance around the base of the tree, extending it all the way to the drip line (the area below the farthest-reaching branches). It's crucial to prevent the fertilizer from coming into contact with the trunk. As time passes, the granules break down and filter into the soil, allowing the roots to absorb the nutrients. After fertilizing, it's recommended to spread a layer of compost about one inch deep around the base of the tree and water it thoroughly. This helps in providing additional nourishment to the tree.
πͺ΄ Pot & Repot
βοΈ Pruning
Pruning your Isu tree during the winter offers numerous benefits, such as helping to maintain its shape and promoting overall health. Be sure to remove any dead branches and thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation. Regular pruning not only encourages denser growth but also enhances flowering. Always use clean, sharp tools, and be careful not to over-prune, as excessive cutting can stress the tree and hinder its recovery.
πΏ Propagating
π Diseases & pets
β οΈ Toxicity
Characteristics
- Plant Type
- Tree, Shrub
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Distylium
- Family
- Hamamelidaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 7-10
- Mature Height
- 3.05 m to 4.57 m
- Mature Spread
- 3.05 m
- Leaf Color
- Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Red
- Flower Size
- 2.54 cm to 7.62 cm
- Bloom Time
- Spring
- Planting Time
- Spring
- Harvest Time
- Early summer, Mid summer
- Native Area
- South Korea, Vietnam, Japan, China