Trees, Shrubs and Conifers: Hovenia dulcis, 0 by Decumbent

Decumbent wrote:
I have grown a few Hovenia dulcis in containers for a several years and really love the foliage, but my luck in the garden has been awful. I planted one late in the fall three years ago and it died back to the ground over winter. What growth it made that summer was destroyed that fall when I accidentally dropped a railroad tie on it. In haste (again, as always) this past fall, late, I planted one of my other seedlings, and it is looking like it too will have considerable dieback, already, despite a really warm winter (but we did get to 10F one night).

I have never seen Hovenia in any area arboretums. Has anybody seen it grow in Zone 6 or colder? I didn't think this tree had a hardiness issue, from what I've read, but now I wonder. The evidence would be so much clear cut if I had ever bothered to give this tree a good home, but I haven't.

As it is, I have one seedling left and a bunch of seeds in the garage, so I'm willing to go another round with it, but I am wondering who knows what about this tree. If anyone has seen a mature one, if you could give me a details on shape and bark, I'd appreciate that too.

Scott