Japanese Snowbell Tree

Styrax japonicus, called Japanese Snowbell, is a compact, deciduous flowering tree thta typically grows to 20-30’ tall and as wide, but infrequently can reach up to 50’ tall. It is noted for its pendulous clusters of bell-shaped, mildly fragrant, blooms in May-June. Drooping flower clusters are easily visible because of the upward posture of the foliage. Flowers give way to greenish-brown, olive-shaped drupes that often persist into late autumn. Gray bark fissures on older branches to reveal orange inner bark which can be attractive in winter. This tree is in the same family as and closely related to Halesia (silverbell).