A large, handsome tree with smooth grey bark and glossy dark green leaves that are pale and silkily hairy when young, turning yellow in autumn. Male and female flowers occur separately on the same tree – the male flowers in yellow brown, tassel like clusters in spring as the leaves emerge, and the females are followed by brown fruits covered in dense bristles.

Soil: Grows well in any well drained soil.

Aspect: Full sun or part shade.

Suitable Locations: Useful for hedging and screens, woodlands, parks. It thrives just about anywhere other than exposed and coastal locations.