Persian Ironwood Felicia

Fiery Autumn hues of deep crimson, claret, and brilliant orange define Parrotia persica Felicia, an outstanding selection of the Persian Ironwood chosen for its exceptionally vibrant and reliable Autumn leaf colour. Unfurling in Spring with a subtle purple-tinged margin, the lustrous, hazel-like leaves mature to a rich green throughout Summer. In late Winter, before the new foliage emerges, tiny spider-like crimson stamens burst directly from the bare twigs, offering a delicate early display for sharp-eyed gardeners. As the tree matures, its flaking, mottled bark peels away in shades of grey, cream, and pinkish-brown to provide striking Winter interest. Naturally compact and neatly proportioned, 'Felicia' brings outstanding year-round structure to gardens large and small.

Site: Tolerates exposure, but requires shelter from freezing North/Easterly winds
Soil: Prefers fertile, moist but well-drained soil of any pH, but Autumn colour is best on slightly acid soil
Position: Full sun, partial shade
Season of Interest: Excellent Autumn colour, late Winter crimson flowers & peeling bark
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Height: 11-16ft (3.5-5m) Spread: 8-11ft (2.3-3.5m)

Images 1-3 by Andreas Rockstein cropped and licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
Image 4 by Plant Image Library cropped and licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0