Persian ironwood is a durable tree that is beautiful in every season, thanks to foliage, branch structure and bark that are all exceptional. Its leaves are oval, almost scalloped, that emerge green with burgundy edges. In late August, it begins its sensational autumn display, turning bronze, then crimson, followed by orange and finishing brilliant gold. This show goes into October. Its branching habit is irregular, providing an eye-catching change from most shrubs and trees. In winter, when its exfoliating gray-and-tan bark is revealed, this picturesque tree makes a dramatic feature. Underplant it with epimediums, hellebores and any spring-flowering bulbs. It is drought tolerant and prefers well-drained soil and full sun or part shade. It grows fastest and has the best fall color in full sun. Give it room to spread and show off its interesting branching pattern. It typically grows to 15 feet high and wide in 10 years, and up to 40 feet high and wide at maturity.
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