Parrotiopsis jacquemontiana

Parrotiopsis jacquemontiana is a shrub or small tree that sheds its leaves. It belongs to Hamamelidaceae, the witch hazel family. Its native range spans eastern Afghanistan and the western Himalaya. It includes northern Pakistan and parts of northern India. It grows under forest trees and on slopes that face north. In some places, it forms stands of its own. People call it flowering ironwood or flowering parrotia.

Garden height varies with the source and growing site. North Carolina State gives 10–20 feet [3–6 metres]. Oregon State lists a smaller range of 8–12 feet [2.4–3.7 metres]. RHS gives 13–26 feet [4–8 metres]. Its description gives about 20 feet [6 metres]. Spread reaches about 13 feet [4 metres]. Growth is slow. The crown may stand upright or form a round shape. The trunk has smooth gray bark. The branches bend without breaking easily. Leaves grow in an alternate pattern, taking turns along the stems. They are round to egg-shaped, with teeth along their edges. Their green tops shine and look wrinkled. Hairs cover the lower sides. The leaves turn yellow in fall before they drop.

Spring flowers open on bare branches before the leaves grow. Each small flower lacks petals and has close-packed stamens. Most sources say the stamens are yellow. Chicago describes them as white. Four to six white bracts frame each flower cluster. Chicago gives bloom dates of March–April. North Carolina gives April–June. RHS also notes scattered flowers in summer. The fruits grow in groups of brown capsules. These split open and hold shiny, brown, oval seeds.

Light shade suits this plant, but it also grows in full sun. It prefers deep, rich soil that stays moist but drains well. Acidic loam suits it. It also accepts other soils and pH levels. RHS allows planting over chalk if the soil is deep enough. RHS rates it H6. North Carolina State lists USDA zones 5–9. Late frost can harm the flowers. Chicago advises winter cover for young plants in its region. It needs little pruning. Sources report few pest or disease problems.

Gardeners grow it as a specimen, screen, or woodland border plant. Its spring bracts and yellow fall leaves add interest in those seasons. People use its strong branches for baskets and ropes. They use its dense wood for tool handles and tent pegs. They also make walking sticks from it. Plants For A Future lists no known food or medicinal uses. It reports no known hazards, but this does not confirm safety.