Plant Profile: Pterocarya stenoptera

This tree is a large, drooping shade provider belonging to the walnut family, Juglandaceae. It offers dappled shade and features extensive roots that spread across the soil surface. Known for its resilience, this tree boasts strong wood. It bears resemblance to the Caucasian wingnut (Pterocarya fraxinifolia), but its compound leaves have midribs (rachis) with toothed, often serrated wings. The new leaves are covered in soft down, and the young twigs are similarly adorned with a tawny fuzz. While the fall foliage presents a subtle yellow-green hue, the brown wingnut fruits stand out prominently during this season.

Seasons of Interest:

Nut: Fall

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Although it faces no significant issues, this tree is regarded as high maintenance due to the considerable litter produced by its fruits, leaves, and twigs.

Form: It features drooping branches, an open canopy, and may sometimes have multiple stems with spreading limbs.