Persian Ironwood

Persian ironwood is a slow-growing deciduous tree valued for several seasons of interest: reddish new leaves, glossy summer foliage, vivid autumn color and patterned mature bark. Its rounded, spreading crown can be grown as a multi-trunk tree or a large shrub. ## Growth and seasonal interest This species from northern Iran belongs to the witch-hazel family, Hamamelidaceae. Small, apetalous flowers with red stamens and brown bracts appear from late winter into early spring, before the leaves. New foliage emerges reddish purple, matures to medium or dark green, then may turn yellow, orange or burgundy in autumn. Mature bark develops irregular green, white and tan patches. North Carolina Extension reports a typical mature size of 15–30 feet high and about as wide. [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/parrotia-persica/common-name/ironwood/) · [Harvard Arnold Arboretum](https://arboretum.harvard.edu/plant-bios/persian-ironwood/) ## Siting Plant in full sun for strong growth and fall color; light shade is tolerated. It prefers moist, well-drained loam with acidic soil, but adapts to clay or sand. Allow room for the broad crown and for its bark to be seen. The available source does not provide a directly comparable USDA hardiness range. ## Maintenance Water during prolonged dry spells, especially while young; established trees are reported to tolerate drought. Little routine pruning is needed beyond removing damaged or crossing branches. Preserve the natural branching structure and avoid unnecessary cuts to mature bark.