Phellodendron amurense aka Chinese Corktree

Taxonomy

Phellodendron amurense, also known as the Amur cork tree, is a species of tree in the Rutaceae family. This deciduous tree can reach heights of up to 15m and has a spreading habit. Its mature bark is thick, corky, and gray-brown in color, becoming ridged and furrowed with age. The glossy and aromatic leaves are divided into up to 13 green leaflets that turn a beautiful clear yellow in autumn. In summer, clusters of small green flowers appear, which, if pollinated, are followed by small round black berries. The winter buds of Phellodendron amurense are coated with fine silvery hairs. Native to eastern Asia, including northern China, northeast China, Korea, Ussuri, Amur, and Japan, the Amur cork tree is highly valued in traditional Chinese medicine as a major source of huáng bò. The Ainu people also utilized this plant, known as shikerebe-ni, as a painkiller. In Korean, it is called hwangbyeok, and in Japanese, it is known as kihada. While it thrives in various soil types and can withstand clay, wind, air pollution, drought, and soil compaction, the Amur cork tree is considered invasive in many parts of North America. In fact, it is even listed as a noxious weed by the State of Massachusetts.

Common names

Chinese Corktree, Phellodendron, Phellodendron Bark

How to care for Chinese Corktree

Difficulty

Caring for Chinese Corktree is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

Water

Chinese Corktree should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Chinese Corktree loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Chinese Corktree requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Phellodendron is always in the right place to thrive.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

Fertilizer

The Chinese Corktree should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Chinese Corktree’s native range is E. Asia - N. China and Manchuria.


More info:
Wikipedia