Tetracentron sinense Seeds | Spike Leaf
LATIN NAME: Tetracentron sinense
COMMON NAME: Spike Leaf
Plant Profile
Spike Leaf (Tetracentron sinense) is a tree in the flowering-plant family. Spike leaf reaches up with long, bare trunk and broad, heart-shaped leaves, long, greenish flower spikes hanging below them, and the whole tree stands in the fine, ancient look of the cool woodland. It is a tree of half-shaded, deep, rich, moist, well-drained ground. Bees find the flowers quickly, and that pollinator traffic is a garden benefit in its own right. It is the sort of plant that quietly justifies the space it occupies.
Science & Biotechnology
The species features in the wider study of the flowering-plant family, and its traits make it a useful subject for work on germination biology, cultivation and ornamental selection. With present-day seed handling, raising this species well within the reach of any careful grower.
Uses & Benefits
Spike Leaf works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. Spike leaf is a quiet, ancient tree of cool woodland and study collection. It is a quiet, ancient tree of half-shaded, deep, rich, moist, well-drained garden. Spike leaf seeds prefer a fine, gritty mix kept steadily moist in a bright, open spot. Thereafter it wants only the ordinary attentions any garden plant receives.
A tree like this repays patience for decades: it cools and shelters its surroundings, hosts birds and insects, and stores carbon in timber that outlives its planter.
Growing from Seed
Spike Leaf grows readily from seed. Sow the seeds evenly over the surface and cover lightly in a loose, well-drained seed compost, keep the sowing evenly moist, and give the pot or tray bright light. Shift the seedlings into small pots as soon as they can be handled, and give them bright light until planting-out time.
Our Take
Spike Leaf earns its space through character rather than fuss. It is generous with beginners and their occasional misjudgements.
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