Roots preclude underplanting. Not to use near driveways or houses since aphids drip secretions (and also cause sooty mold). Branch strength debated. Generally does not form multiple leaders.
Missouri BG both does and does not recommend using this tree as a shade tree, on the exact same page, so IDEK. Robert Kourik, in The Tree and Shrub Finder, writes that it blocks on average 90% of sunlight in leaf but only 27% when bare, one of the best results of any tree he lists.
Root system is fleshy and sparsely branched, much like in its relatives the magnolias. Avoid dry heat. Avoided by gypsy moths.
Missouri BG is the only source to claim clay tolerance, soundly outnumbered by the USDA, JerseyYards.org, NCSU, and White Oak.
'Ardis' and 'Compactum' are smaller, compact forms that may be useful in smaller areas; 'Little Volunteer' is a bit faster growing than 'Ardis'. 'Aureomarginatum' is considered one of the finest of variegated trees, apparently even among those who normally don't like variegated trees. 'JFS-Oz' (Emerald City) is hardier, more compact, and "unusually" dark green.
Sources: Sunset, White Oak, UFL, JerseyYards.org, Missouri BG, Rutgers, UConn, NCSU, USDA, Dirr/Warren.
Buy it at PlantingTree.com (affiliate link; supports this website)
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