Largest leaves in this part of the country. This is the ugly duckling of trees that I grow that turns into a beautiful swan as it matures. Has the largest bipinnate leaves in northern Illinois. Large leaves need large branches for support. A 2 inch caliper tree has only 1 to 3 branches. I have two trees in my yard which unfortunately are male. Females produce 3-6 inch seed pods that stay on all winter, providing great winter interest. As the trees are dioecious you would believe male and female trees are needed to produce fruit. The females must not be listening, as my dad had only one female tree that set fruit every year with no males in the area! Moderate growing tree that is widely adaptable to our urban areas. Pest free. The scaly ridged bark and irregular coarse branching habit create a dramatic effect on the winter landscape. Fall color is a very short-lived yellow.

Environment:  Xeric  Dry/Mesic  Mesic  Wet/Mesic  Hydric

Exposure:  Shade  Part Shade  Morning Sun  Full Sun

Bloom Period:  Spring  Summer  Fall