Unique Features: The Persian Ironwood, native to Iran and Azerbaijan, grows moderately into an upright oval shape, broadening with age. It is closely related to Witch Hazel, and has the same type of odd bloom time and peculiar flowers. The bloom time is in winter to very early spring, and the fairly inconspicuous flowers consist mostly of dark red stamens.  It is a pleasant surprise to see spots of color on the otherwise bare branches in late February to early March. They also have a beautiful range of fall color, boasting shades of yellow, orange and dark red to purple. The leaves often persist on the tree into winter, losing their colors as the age. The Persian Ironwood has few disease or insect issues and tolerates dry alkaline soil once established. With age the bark exfoliates, exposing pink, green and yellow splotches.