A beautiful multi-stemmed tree is about more than just the species. Its structure, branching and the balance between the individual stems are equally important. For Growers’ Pride, Boomkwekerij Peter Verhoeven in Haaren presents the multi-stemmed Parrotia persica ‘Bella’: a distinctive tree that combines shape and colour throughout the seasons.

Persian ironwood is renowned for its rich autumn colour and decorative bark. The cultivar ‘Bella’ adds a more compact and controlled growth habit. This makes it suitable for a wider range of applications than the common Parrotia persica, which can eventually develop a broad, spreading crown. As a multi-stemmed tree, ‘Bella’ forms an open and natural silhouette, giving every specimen its own individual shape and appearance.

Colour that continues to change
The growing season starts with young foliage in reddish-green to dark red shades. During summer, the leaves turn glossy dark green, while fresh shoots may introduce new reddish accents. Another transformation begins towards the end of summer. Depending on the location and weather conditions, the foliage develops shades ranging from yellow and orange to red, dark red and purple. Several colours can sometimes be seen on the same tree at once.

This gradual transformation makes ‘Bella’ particularly valuable in gardens and landscaping projects. Instead of providing just one brief display, the tree continues to change its appearance throughout much of the year. Small red flowers also appear on the bare stems in February and March. Although modest in size, they provide an unusual detail at a time when few trees are in flower.

The multi-stemmed form makes the difference
Boomkwekerij Peter Verhoeven supplies Parrotia persica ‘Bella’ as a multi-stemmed tree. In this form, the natural character of the species is particularly prominent. The stems combine to create a broad, transparent crown, with branching that begins close to ground level. The result is a tree that immediately adds volume and structure to a planting scheme.

The multi-stemmed form also allows views between and beneath the branches. Despite its strong presence, the tree therefore retains a relatively light and open appearance. It can be planted as a solitary specimen or combined with shrubs, perennials and ornamental grasses. Its irregular silhouette is at its best in a position where the tree can be viewed from several directions.

Attractive even without foliage
As ‘Bella’ matures, it develops another ornamental feature. The bark gradually begins to flake, creating a patchwork of grey, brown and creamy shades. After leaf fall, the multi-stemmed structure and decorative bark become fully visible. This is therefore not a tree that proves its value only in autumn: it also retains structure and character throughout winter.

With Parrotia persica ‘Bella’, Boomkwekerij Peter Verhoeven demonstrates how much ornamental value can be brought together in a single multi-stemmed tree: a natural shape, a long-lasting display of colour and an appearance that becomes increasingly distinctive with age.