Blue Sandalwood

(Pteroceltis tatarinowii)

Blue Sandalwood (Pteroceltis tatarinowii)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Pteroceltis tatarinowii, commonly known as blue sandalwood or wingceltis, is a deciduous tree native to the forested mountains and limestone regions of central and eastern China. It can grow up to 66 feet (20 meters) tall with a straight trunk and a rounded crown. The tree is notable for its pale gray bark, which peels off in patches, and its oblong, serrated leaves that turn yellow in the fall. Wingceltis produces inconspicuous greenish-white flowers in the spring, followed by distinctive winged fruits that mature in autumn.

Blue sandalwood is valued for its hard, fine-grained wood used in furniture making and construction. The bark fiber is highly regarded for producing Xuan paper, an important material for Chinese calligraphy and painting. Additionally, the seeds of Pteroceltis tatarinowii are a source of oil. In cultivation, it requires well-drained soils, preferably alkaline, and thrives in full sun to partial shade. While not commonly found in Western gardens, it can be an attractive ornamental tree with its unique bark and fall coloration. It is relatively low-maintenance but may be susceptible to pests and diseases common to hardwood trees.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 30-45 feet
  • Width: 30-40 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Green
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Border Plant, Deer Resistant, Erosion Control, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Forested mountains and limestone regions in central and eastern China

Other Names

Common Names: Tatarian Maple, Wingceltis, Chinese Elm

Scientific Names: , Pteroceltis tatarinowii, Pteroceltis tatarinowii subsp. pubescens, Pteroceltis tatarinowii var. pubescens, Ulmus cavaleriei,

GBIF Accepted Name: