Pteroceltis tatarinowii

Pteroceltis tatarinowii, commonly known as Chinese catalpa or Tatarian catalpa, is a deciduous tree native to China's north-central, south-central, and southeast regions, as well as Manchuria and Qinghai. This versatile plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and can tolerate dry to moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). Hardy from zones 4-8, Pteroceltis tatarinowii reaches a height of about 10 meters. It is notable for its edible properties, often used in traditional Chinese cuisine, where its seeds and young leaves can be consumed. Its distinctive features include large, heart-shaped leaves and showy, trumpet-shaped flowers that add ornamental value to landscapes. This tree is also valued for its utility, providing fiber, oil, and lumber. While primarily used for its ornamental and practical purposes, it is important to note that the plant should be handled with caution due to potential allergenic compounds.