Plant Profile: Trochodendron aralioides

Trochodendron aralioides, commonly known as the Wheel Tree, is an evergreen tree or shrub native to Asia and is the sole surviving member of its genus. Typically, it reaches heights and widths of 10 to 20 feet, but with proper pruning, it can grow taller. In its natural environment, it can attain heights of up to 60 feet and a trunk diameter of 16 feet. However, when cultivated, especially in cooler climates, its size tends to be significantly reduced. This tree thrives in full sunlight and can adapt to various soil types, although it flourishes best in loamy soil with some dappled shade.

The name "Wheel Tree" is derived from Greek, where "trochos" means wheel and "dendron" means tree. During its flowering period, the numerous stamens resemble the spokes of a wheel.

In its natural habitat, the Wheel Tree often starts its life as a growth on the trunk of a Japanese cedar, initially developing in a shrubby form for several years. Its glossy, leathery leaves are arranged in whorls around the terminal bud, giving it a distinctive umbrella-like shape. The flowers that bloom in spring are greenish and star-shaped, appearing in clusters, and the tree has a slow growth rate.

While it can tolerate full sun, the Wheel Tree performs optimally with some afternoon shade or dappled light. It prefers moist, fertile, well-drained loamy soils and should be sheltered from strong winds. Although it can withstand occasional flooding, it is not drought-tolerant.

Finding the Wheel Tree for sale may be challenging, but it serves well as a specimen shrub, an understory tree, or a source of light shade.

In terms of pests and diseases, the Wheel Tree does not face significant issues. It should be protected from strong winds, and once established, it can be quite challenging to relocate. Additionally, it may take several years before it begins to flower.