PLANT OF THE MONTH

October 2020 — Persian Ironwood

Common Name:  Persian Ironwood

Latin Name:   Parrotia persica

Family:  Hamamelidaceae

Type:  Deciduous tree

Origin:   Northern Iran, Caucacus

Location at Bloedel Reserve:   Birch Garden and Mid Pond

Garden Uses:  Fall color, foundation planting

Fun Fact:  With leaves of green, yellow, red, and orange, this member of the witch hazel family is sure to stop any plant lover in their tracks!  The genus name honors F.W. Parrot, a German naturalist and traveler who climbed Mount Ararat in 1834. Once the last of these multi-colored leaves drop, be sure to check out the stunning exfoliating bark!