Styrax japonicus – Japanese Snowbell
Masses of snowdrop-like flowers hanging from every branch.
Habit:
This is an elegant medium-sized deciduous tree with spreading branches, growing to 10M. Bell-shaped white flowers with yellow stamens are borne in profusion beneath the branches.
Origins:
S. japonicus is a native, as the name suggest, and also of Korea and China. It grows in open woodland conditions, with moist, well-drained, humus-rich, acidic soil
Soil / Aspect:
Once established S. japonicus is a hardy and reliable plant. To flower best it probably needs an orchard type setting. This provides some shade for the lower parts of the plant and helps to prevent the soil from drying out, whilst allowing plenty of light.
Maintenance:
S. japonicus needs to be watered regularly during dry periods, to become established. It can be pruned after flowering. However, restricting the growth to form a more compact shape does not allow the flowers to be seen to their full advantage. To fully appreciate a mature S. japonicus in flower, lie on your back under the tree and gaze up at the flowers.