Parrotia persica ‘Vanessa’, commonly called Vanessa Persian ironwood or Persian parrotia, is a stunning ornamental tree gaining popularity for its year-round interest and stellar fall color. As a medium-sized, upright deciduous tree that typically reaches 20-40’ tall by 15-30’ wide, it’s an excellent choice for many landscapes. This article provides an in-depth look at ‘Vanessa’ Persian ironwood, covering its key features, growing requirements, and uses in residential and commercial settings.
Overview
The Alborz mountains in northern Iran are home to Parrotia persica. The species was brought to North America and Europe in the middle of the 1800s. The “Vanessa” cultivar later became known as a better choice. “Vanessa” Persian ironwood grows faster, can handle living in cities better, and has brighter fall color than the straight species.
This small, deciduous tree has a pyramidal shape that is only slightly upright and strong horizontal branching tiers. It exhibits a medium growth rate of 1-2′ per year. It grows to be 20 to 40 feet tall and 15 to 30 feet wide, which makes it a good choice for many landscape uses. “Vanessa” does well in a wide range of conditions, but it does best in full sun to partial shade, acidic, well-drained soil that stays moist.
Ornamental Features
Beyond its excellent habit ‘Vanessa’ parrotia provides multi-season interest
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Winter – Exfoliating bark in patches of cream, gray, green, amber and brown creates a beautiful patchwork pattern on mature trunks and branches.
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Spring – Clusters of tiny but showy deep red flowers bloom as the leaves emerge, each with a bright red center.
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Summer – Glossy green, 4-6” wide oval leaves have a nice serrated edge Foliage contrasts nicely against the patchy bark.
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Fall – Foliage transforms to brilliant shades of yellow, orange and red for several weeks of color. Intensity increases with sun exposure.
Growing Requirements
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Hardiness Zones – Zone 5 to 8
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Sun – Full sun to partial shade
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Soil – Moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Tolerates clay, loam, sand, gravelly or rocky soil.
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pH – Acidic to neutral
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Watering – Moderate watering needs. Requires occasional irrigation during drought.
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Maintenance – Easy care once established. Little pruning needed beyond removing dead branches.
Landscape Uses
Because it is small, pretty, and can live in cities, the “Vanessa” parrot has many possible uses:
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Specimen tree – Its year-round beauty makes it perfect for planting alone as a focal point.
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Accent tree – Provides nice contrast against evergreen backdrops.
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Street tree – Adds seasonal interest and fall color to street plantings.
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Parks and public spaces – Provides multi-season appeal in low maintenance plantings.
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Residential landscapes: It fits well in yards; put it near entrances, corners, or patios to enjoy its features.
Buying Vanessa Persian Parrotia Trees
You can buy ‘Vanessa’ Persian ironwood trees from specialty nurseries and online sources. They are sold in containers or balled and burlapped. Be sure to give them adequate space to reach full mature size for maximum impact. Properly sited, this stellar specimen tree will provide lasting beauty and appeal in your landscape.
Parrotia persica (Persian ironwood)- All you need to know about this Autumn beauty
FAQ
How big do Parrotia persica Vanessa get?
| Hardiness | 4 – 7 What’s My Zone? |
|---|---|
| Height | 15′ – 40′ (4.6m – 12.2m) |
| Spread | 10′ – 20′ (3m – 6.1m) |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Water Needs | Average |
Are Persian ironwood trees messy?
It doesn’t make a lot of mess and doesn’t root quickly, so it’s a good choice for a little shade next to a deck, patio, or water garden. As a multi-stem tall shrub, parrotia is good for borders and for spotting on banks.
How tall does a Parrotia persica get?
Parrotia persica, commonly called Persian ironwood, is a small to medium sized, single trunk, deciduous tree eventually growing 20-40′ tall (but typically 10′ after 7-8 years) or a large, multi-stemmed shrub growing to 15′ tall.
How do you care for a Parrotia tree?
Water your Parrotia persica tree regularly, keeping the soil moist but not wet. Provide mulch around the tree’s base to retain moisture and reduce weeds. Fertilize once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Make sure to prune the tree regularly to keep it healthy and to look its best.