Phellodendron chinense, also known as Chinese Cork Tree, is a stunning deciduous tree with compound dark yellow-green leaves that turn yellow in the fall. This native of central and western China produces clusters of greenish flowers and black fruit, with separate sexes occurring on different trees. It can grow up to 10 meters tall and is hardy in zone 5. Phellodendron chinense is as good an ornamental as any other species, according to Wyman. This tree prefers well-drained, moist soil and can grow in acidic, neutral, or alkaline soils. Apart from its ornamental value, the bark of this tree contains the isocoumarin derivative 3-acetyl-3,4-dihydro-5,6-dimethoxy-1H-2-benzopyran-1-one, which is found in Huáng bǎi, one of the fundamental herbs of traditional Chinese medicine. Grow Phellodendron chinense to add an exotic touch to your landscape.
