Euptelea polyandra

Euptelea polyandra is a deciduous tree in the Eupteleaceae family. It comes from central and southern Japan. Its native range includes Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu. It grows in forests and mountain woods there. Gardeners also know it as the multi-anthered tassel tree. It can form a small tree or a spreading shrub. Suckers can grow around the main plant.

In gardens, height and spread reach about 13–26 feet [4–8 metres]. Plants take about 10–20 years to reach their full size. Growth proceeds at a moderate rate. The crown may spread sideways or take a pyramidal shape. Broad, rounded leaves narrow to a pointed tip. They reach about 0.5 feet [0.15 metres] in length. Young leaves have a red tint before turning bright green. Their glossy surface adds interest through the growing season. In autumn, the leaves turn yellow and red before falling.

Small flower clusters open in spring, before the leaves emerge. They lack both petals and sepals. Red stamens provide much of their visible colour. The clusters can also have a greenish cast. Individual flowers measure less than 0.08 feet [0.025 metres] across. They are less striking than the autumn leaves. Some moth larvae feed on this tree. Its foliage and broad form suit woodland settings and borders. Gardens also use it for hedges and privacy screens.

Choose fertile soil that stays moist but drains well. Full sun suits it, though it also accepts partial shade. It can grow beneath a canopy in dappled light. It tolerates clay, loam, sand, and chalk soils. Acid, neutral, and alkaline soils all fall within its range. A sheltered site matches the RHS growing guidance. Its listed hardiness covers USDA zones 6–8 and RHS H5. It fits woodland gardens as well as informal planting schemes. Sow ripe seed in a seedbed to raise new plants.

The RHS reports few pest or disease problems. NC State also lists no known major problems. The leaves have a recorded use as cooked food. This is a famine use, not a standard food crop. Plants For A Future gives its food value a low rating. That source lists no known hazards or medicinal uses. Its main garden value lies in its leaves and autumn colour.