Styrax japonicus (Japanese Snowbell)

Very showy and elegant, Styrax japonicus (Japanese Snowbell) is a deciduous tree with gracefully spreading branches and a rounded crown. In late spring to early summer, masses of fragrant, bell-shaped, white flowers with showy golden-yellow stamens, appear in pendulous racemes. Despite flowering after the leaves have fully emerged, the blossoms are easily visible thanks to the upward posture of the foliage. The foliage of finely-pointed ovate, glossy green leaves, turns golden yellow, and orange in the fall. The smooth gray bark exfoliates on older specimens, revealing orange inner bark that adds winter interest. A great patio tree that provides multi-season interest.

• Grows slowly up to 20-30 ft. tall and wide (6-9 m).
• This plant is best grown in full sun to part shade in medium moisture, humus-rich, acidic, well-drained soils. Provide a site sheltered from cold, dry winds. Once established, it only needs occasional watering during the summer
• Perfect as a specimen plant or for beds and borders. Great flowering tree for cottage gardens or woodland gardens.
• Virtually pest and disease free.
• Prune in winter to control shape.
• Propagate from seed or by softwood cuttings
• Native to Japan and Korea