Variety description: This contoured, weeping form of the scholars tree, known as long zhao huai 龍爪槐 or 'Dragon's Claw' in China has been long cultivated as an ornamental tree in Beijing. Spectacular old specimens can be seen on the grounds of the Summer Palace 頤和園. The contorted, twisted branches are particularly striking and evocative during the winter, when bare of foliage. Unlike the straight species, this cultivar rarely flowers or produces seed.
This tree can be trained in two ways for different landscape uses. If the leader is not staked at a young age and the tree is allowed to sprawl at a low height, it will create a short, mounded form. Alternatively, the tree can be trained as it is seen in China, with the leader staked to a height of 6-8' with side branches removed. Once the desired height is reached, the contorted branches are allowed to grow, creating a cascading canopy. These branches can be pruned annually to create a more manicured look.
Despite the common name, the scholars tree is native to China where it has been cultivated since antiquity. Specimens purported to be a thousand years old or more are still growing today on temple grounds and roadsides in northern China. A particularly infamous scholars tree, is one on the grounds of Jingshan park in Beijing. It was from this tree, which is still alive today, from which the last emperor of the Ming dynasty, Chongzhen, hung himself with his own belt in 1644, rather than fall into the hands of a victorious army of peasant rebels.
Height and Spread at Maturity: Dependent on training style and pruning. Maximum size is around 20' tall and 15' wide.
Site requirements: Best in full sun. Prefers light, well-drained alkaline soil.
Hardiness: USDA zones 5 through 9A.
Plant size: Grafted tree, grown in. 4" X 9" tree pot
When we ship: FALL 2025
