Japanese Snowbell (Styrax japonicus)

The Japanese styrax is best noted for its bell-shaped, white flowers that bloom in May to June. These flowers droop downward and are easily visible since the oval-shaped, glossy green leaves point upward. With age, the bark on this tree may begin to exfoliate and reveal the inner orange bark.

Family: Styracaceae (Silver Bells)

Characteristics: The 1-inch to 3-inch-long leaves are oval-shaped, glossy, and dark green. In the fall, leaves may turn yellow to red, though more often do not change color. In May-June, the white, bell-shaped, 5-lobed, drooping flowers begin to bloom, occuring in groups of 3 to 6. These flowers are easily visible, due to the upward posture of the leaves. These flowers are followed by green-brown, olive-shaped fruits. Bark is gray and smooth, though may exfoliate with age, revealing the inner orange bark. This tree has a rounded crown with horizontally spreading branches. It grows 20-30 feet high and wide.

Foliage: Deciduous (leaves lost seasonally)

Geographic Origin: China, Japan, Korea (non-native)

Cultivation Notes: Requires medium maintenance. Does best in full sun to part shade. Prefers acidic, moist, and well-drained soils.

Number on Campus: 16