Persian Ironwood 'Persian Spire'

A good choice for smaller spaces, Parrotia persica 'Persian Spire' is an upright, columnar cultivar reaching around 6m in height. It remains more compact than both its parent and the fellow cultivar Parrotia persica 'Vanessa'.

Offering interest through much of the year, this is an excellent ornamental tree. Small, unusual flowers with prominent red anthers can begin opening on the bare branches from late winter into early spring, while much of the surrounding landscape is still dormant.

Narrowly oval leaves emerge purple-red before maturing to green in the centre, with a rich purple margin remaining through the growing season. In autumn, the foliage develops vibrant shades of orange, red and yellow.

The pale, flaky bark provides additional year-round interest and becomes increasingly attractive as the tree matures.

Preferring full sun, this hardy tree will grow in most soil types provided they are not waterlogged. It is suitable for both exposed and sheltered positions, is rated H6 for hardiness and typically develops a spread of around 3m.

Mature height: up to 6m

Common names

Persian Ironwood 'Persian Spire'

Height of tree

3-7m

Soil type

Well drained

Shape

Narrow

Looks good in

AutumnSpringSummer

Location

Garden

Genus

Parrotia