How to Grow Stachyurus - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2025

Stachyurus is a genus of flowering plants in the family stachyuraceae, containing at least 15 species. stachyurus plants are native to east asia, with the majority of species found in china. these plants are shrubs or small trees, ranging in height from 2 to 10 m. the leaves are alternate, simple, and usually have toothed margins. the flowers are borne in racemes or panicles, and have four or five petals. the fruit is a drupe.

How to Grow Stachyurus - Plant Care & Tips

Alternative name

  • Stachyurus salicifolius
  • Stachyurus himalaicus
  • Stachyurus chinensis
  • Stachyurus praecox
  • Stachyurus tibetanus

Good to Know

  • Stachyurus is a genus of flowering plants in the family Stachyuraceae, members of which are commonly known as spring-flowering shrubs.
  • The genus is native to East Asia, with the majority of species found in China.
  • A small number of species extend into India, Japan, and Korea.
  • The genus name is derived from the Greek words ?????? (stachyos), meaning "spike", and ???? (oura), meaning "tail".
  • The most common and widely cultivated species is Stachyurus chinensis, also known as Chinese stachyurus.
  • S. chinensis is a small to medium-sized shrub that typically grows to 2-3 m in height.
  • It is noted for its pendulous racemes of bright yellow flowers which appear in late winter or early spring.
  • Other popular species include Stachyurus praecox, Stachyurus himalaicus, and Stachyurus salicifolius.
  • Stachyurus species are widely grown as ornamental plants for their attractive flowers and foliage.
  • They are typically planted in locations with full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.

Growing Steps

  1. For stachyurus, first step is to find a sunny spot in your yard that has well-drained soil.
  2. Amend the soil with organic matter such as compost or peat moss to help retain moisture.
  3. Dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the root ball.
  4. Place the root ball in the hole and backfill with amended soil.
  5. Water the plant deeply immediately after planting.
  6. Apply a 2-inch layer of mulch around the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  7. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, making sure to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
  8. Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer.
  9. Prune the plant as needed to shape it and remove any damaged or diseased branches.
  10. Enjoy your beautiful stachyurus!

The Soil

About soil condition, Stachyurus prefers rich humus, well-drained soil, and partial shade, but is adaptable to a range of soils and grows well in full sun if it is not too hot and dry. It does not tolerate waterlogged soil.

Light requirement

Like the other Stachyurus species, the Stachyurus chinensis requires full sun to partial shade in order to bloom properly. It can tolerate more sun in cooler climates, but in hot summer climates, it will need some afternoon shade. If it does not get enough sun, it will not bloom as heavily.

The Temperature

The temperature condition of the Stachyurus is warm to hot. They like their soil on the drier side and their water needs are moderate. If the temperature gets too hot, the leaves may start to wilt and the flowers may start to fade.

Humidity Level

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is between 40 to 60%. The plant need high humidity to prevent the leaves from drying out and turning brown. If the humidity is too low, the leaves will turn brown and drop off.

The Fertilizer

For the fertilizer, this plant prefers manure as it provides essential nutrients for growth. For the roots, it is important to keep them moist but not waterlogged. If the roots are waterlogged, they will rot and the plant will die.

Plant Pruning

Pruning your stachyurus is an important part of plant care. Doing so will ensure that your plant stays healthy and looks its best. When pruning, be sure to remove any dead or dying leaves or branches. You can also trim back any overgrown areas to help keep your plant in shape.

Plant Propagation

Propagation of stachyurus is usually done by seed, although cuttings can also be taken from young shoots in late spring. Seeds should be sown as soon as they are ripe in a cold frame. Cuttings can be taken from young shoots in late spring, using a sharp knife or secateurs.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate is fast, with some species reaching almost a meter in just a few months. However, some species have a growth rate that is much slower, taking up to a year or more to reach their full size. Overall, though, stachyurus are considered to be relatively rapid growers.

Common Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant plants are root rot, leaf spots, and powdery mildew. Root rot is caused by too much moisture in the soil, which leads to fungal growth. Leaf spots are caused by fungi or bacteria that infect the leaves, causing them to turn brown or black. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that covers the leaves with a white powdery substance.

Basics of Growing

  • If you are growing stachyurus from seed, sow the seeds in late winter or early spring.
  • Stachyurus prefer a shady position in the garden.
  • When planting, mix some organic matter into the planting hole.
  • Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system.
  • Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help keep the roots cool and moist.
  • Prune back the plant hard in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth.
  • Feed with a slow-release fertilizer in spring.
  • After flowering, cut back the spent flower stems to encourage a second flush of flowers.
  • Protect the plant from strong winds to prevent damage.
  • Divide and replant every 3-4 years to keep the plant vigorous.

Similar Plants

  • Pachystachys
  • Pachystachya
  • Pachystigma
  • Stachyuraceae
  • Stachyurus
  • Stachyurinae
  • Stachyurula
  • Stachyurus arisanensis
  • Stachyurus chinensis
  • Stachyurus corymbiferum

Source:
Stachyurus | Landscape Plants | Oregon State University
JC Raulston Arboretum - Our Plants - Stachyurus praecox 'Issai'
MIT App Inventor

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Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Shrubs Category