Growth: Very fast, commonly 2-3ft/year
Light: Full sun; shade intolerant
Soil: Adaptable, including heavy clay in upper soil horizons, sandy loams and sands; prefers pH 6.0-6.5
Central Missouri: Rated hardy to about zone 6 (roughly -8 F), so it is marginal in central Missouri's colder winters and can suffer winter injury; also prone to canker diseases (Seiridium, Botryosphaeria) when stressed by drought or poorly drained clay, so it is a riskier long-term choice here than in warmer zones
*Stock image shown for reference. Actual tree appearance may vary.