From mountain streams in East Asia come 10 species of deciduous cork trees that make wonderful large specimens. Both male and female plants are needed to produce the round, fragrant fruit. Bark is deeply textured and attractive. Leaves are also aromatic and can have good fall color. Plants in this genus need a large garden site to spread out to their full potential. Phellodendron amurense is invasive in some areas.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsBluish black, aromatic fruits; attractive bark; aromatic foliage.
CareSite in full sun and deep, fertile, well-drained soil.
PropagationStart seeds in containers outdoors in autumn, or root semi-ripe cuttings in midsummer.
ProblemsInfrequent.