Toona sinensis 'North Red'
Overview
Uses: Edible landscape tree, shade tree, hedge planting, food garden feature
Benefits: Edible young shoots and leaves with distinctive aromatic flavor. Can be maintained as a harvestable hedge or allowed to mature into a large shade tree. Attractive red new growth and valuable hardwood.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 5–9
Sun: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Life Cycle: Deciduous Tree
Growth Habit: Upright, Broad-spreading — central leader with open canopy.
Bloom Color: Pale Pink to Cream
Foliage Color: Red new growth maturing to Green
Mature Height: 50–65 feet
Mature Width: 25–30 feet
Bloom Season: Late Spring to Early Summer
Growth Rate: Fast
Summary
A unique edible tree that blends ornamental appeal with culinary use.
Toona sinensis 'North Red' is often called the “vegetable tree” for its flavorful young shoots and leaves, which are traditionally harvested in spring. New growth emerges in striking red tones before maturing to green, adding seasonal color and visual interest.
If left unpruned, it develops into a large, fast-growing shade tree with an open canopy. Many gardeners choose to maintain it as a trimmed hedge or coppiced shrub to encourage continuous production of tender edible shoots.
In addition to its edible qualities, the tree produces small pale pink to cream flowers in late spring and is valued for its durable hardwood.
Care
Chinese Toon Care
Plant in full sun to partial shade. Increased sunlight encourages stronger growth and fuller canopy development.
Prefers moist, well-drained soil and performs best in slightly acidic conditions. Water regularly during establishment and during extended dry periods.
Apply a balanced slow release fertilizer in spring to support vigorous growth.
Prune as desired to control size. Regular trimming encourages fresh shoot production if growing for edible harvest. Mulch around the base to help retain soil moisture.
Size
What Size is the Chinese Toon for Sale Online?
Plants are greenhouse-grown and shipped in a grow pot, well-rooted and actively growing. For current sizing or availability details, please contact us.
How Large Does Chinese Toon Grow?
When grown as a tree, it may reach 50–65 feet tall and 25–30 feet wide. With regular pruning, it can be maintained as a smaller hedge-like plant for easier harvest.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
- Chinese Toon
- Red Toon
- Beef and Onion Plant
- Chinese Mahogany
- Chinese Cedar
Can Chinese Toon be grown for edible harvest?
Yes. Young shoots and leaves are traditionally harvested in spring and used fresh. Many growers prune regularly to encourage tender new growth for culinary use. Browse additional edible selections in our Fruit & Vegetable Plants collection.
Is Chinese Toon suitable as a shade tree?
When allowed to mature, it forms a broad canopy that provides light to moderate shade. Explore additional options in our Trees collection.
Does this tree require heavy pruning?
Pruning is optional. It may be grown naturally as a tree or trimmed regularly to maintain a smaller, harvest-focused form.
