Mallotus japonicus

Mallotus japonicus, little known and rarely planted, is a large deciduous Asian bush that is original, highly ornamental, and very accommodating. This surprising relative of euphorbias, while not the hardiest, is interesting for its regular candelabra-like architecture, its wide-spreading habit, its young pink leaves, its luxuriant foliage, its fragrant flowering, and its rapid growth. It is easy to grow in any sufficiently deep soil, even limestone, in sun or not too dense shade. Plant it in isolation to enjoy its elegance and unusual winter silhouette. An extraordinary plant that should thrive in many regions spared by severe frosts!

Native to Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and central China, Mallotus japonicus (synonyms Rottlera japonica, Croton japonicus) is a large deciduous bush or small tree belonging to the large Euphorbiaceae family. In nature, it is found in open woodlands, forest edges, and wooded valleys. Once well established, it can withstand brief frosts of around -10 to -12°C (14 to 10.4°F). However, it can vigorously regrow from the stump after having experienced slightly more severe frosts if its stump is protected. It can do without watering in summer in all our regions.

With rapid growth, this large bush is capable of reaching more than 6m (20ft) in height and up to 10 to 12m (33 to 39ft) in width at the crown level if not shaped by the gardener. It spontaneously develops several trunks, on which spread out branches appear, with ternary divisions (in groups of 3 branches) that are very staggered. The young wood, leaf petioles, and floral peduncles are covered with a velvety down. The leaves emerge in spring (early April), displaying a bright red-pink colour, before fading to salmon pink, and turning a fresh apple green colour with a slightly wavy appearance. Carried by red petioles, they can measure 10 to 20cm (4 to 8in) long and 6 to 15cm (2 to 6in) wide. They turn golden yellow before falling in autumn.

Flowering occurs from July to August. This species, described as dioecious, bears male or female flowers on separate individuals. In female plants, the flowers are gathered in small upright panicles or clusters exuding a very pleasant fragrance. Lacking petals, they display 3 pale-yellow stigmas that gradually turn bright red. In male plants, odoriferous flowers also appear assembled in small erect panicles, but this time consisting of a bouquet of pale-yellow stamens. In the presence of a male plant, the female flowers produce small green and velvety fruits, each containing a small black seed.

This bush deserves to be planted more in our gardens, taking into account its long-term development. It should preferably be placed in isolation in front of a large shrub border or in a well-cleared space that allows its silhouette to be admired even in winter. Its adaptability and low requirements make it a good choice for our not-too-cold regions.