Snowrose - Serissa japonica (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Snowrose

Also known as: Tree of a thousand stars

The Serissa japonica, or tree of a thousand stars, is an evergreen flowering shrub native to the tropical woodlands of Southeast Asia. Snowrose grows in China, India, and Japan. It is often cultivated in the art of bonsai.

Scientific classification

Species

Snowrose (Serissa japonica)

Gentians, dogbanes, madders, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

45 cm to 60 cm

Plant Height

60 cm to 1.2 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

1 cm

Flower Size

White

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Images of Snowrose

Culture

Garden Use

A low, unusual shrub that blooms prolifically, snowrose can be used for edging walkways and ponds, border fronts, or as a compact hedge. It is a typical plant for Asian-themed gardens. Snowrose also thrives in containers and is highly popular as a bonsai because of its evergreen foliage, recurrent flowering, and a tendency to form a gnarly trunk.

Symbolism

Well being, luck and hope

Interesting Facts

Snowrose is frequently used as a bonsai tree. However, it can be a difficult tree for beginners to grow. Snowrose does not like change and will drop its leaves in response to being overwatered, underwatered, too hot, too cold, or moved. However, it can usually recover when conditions are fixed.

Name Story

Snowrose: Snowrose, or Serissa japonica, has a very misleading name. It neither blooms in the snow nor is it in the rose family. The common name may refer to its prolific, snow-white blooms which resemble snowflakes. It was formerly known as serissa foetida, referring to the foul odor released when the plant is pruned or damaged.

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Care Guide for Snowrose

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from Asia's moist environments, snowrose thrives in humidity and is moderately drought-tolerant. Water every 1-2 weeks to keep soil slightly damp. As an evergreen shrub, it benefits from regular misting to maintain ambient humidity.

Fertilize: Fertilize snowrose every 4-6 weeks in spring and summer with a quarter-strength balanced fertilizer to promote flowering and root health. Reduce frequency in fall and stop in winter. Always water snowrose beforehand and monitor for nutrient deficiencies or excesses for optimal care.

Pruning: Snowrose requires pruning after late spring flowering to enhance bushiness and remove unhealthy growth. Avoid heavy pruning in cooler months to prevent stress. Proper trimming improves air circulation and light access, ensuring robust and aesthetically pleasing growth.

Propagation: Snowrose is a delicate shrub noted for its dense foliage and small blooms. Propagation via cuttings is effective, especially with rooting hormone to boost root establishment. Proper moisture and temperature management are crucial for nurturing cuttings into healthy, mature plants.

Repotting: Repot snowrose every 2-3 years during spring for optimal growth. Use a larger pot with well-draining soil to avoid root crowding. After repotting, position snowrose in bright, indirect light and ensure consistent moisture to promote recovery and robust health.

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