Japanese Snowbell - Styrax japonicus (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Japanese Snowbell

Japanese Snowbell is a deciduous flowering tree native to Japan China and Korea. This smaller-sized tree makes a lovely ornamental with its slightly fragrant white bell-shaped blossoms that bloom spring to summer. Its leaves turn yellow to orange in the fall before dropping.

Scientific classification

Species

Japanese Snowbell (Styrax japonicus)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

12 m

Plant Height

8 m

Spread

Green, Yellow, Orange

Leaf Color

2 cm to 3 cm

Flower Size

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Japanese Snowbell

Distribution of Japanese Snowbell

Distribution Map

Japanese Snowbell is originally found in East Asia, extending its presence through several temperate and subtropical regions on the continent. It has also been introduced to areas well outside its native range, finding suitable habitats elsewhere. Today, japanese Snowbell is cultivated in many parts of the world, thriving in various locales that mirror its native climate and conditions.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Shrub borders, open woodland gardens, lawn specimen

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

In spring, the graceful japanese Snowbell produces elegant white blooms that add a pop of decoration to any garden where this tree is planted. This tree is a wonderful addition to a colorful or woodland garden, especially when the foliage turns colors in the autumn. You can use it as an ornamental tree, especially in moist soil or by water features.

Interesting Facts

The fruit of the japanese Snowbell resembles olives in both shape and color. Some plants in the Styrax genus are cultivated for their balsamic resin, called benzoin or storax, which is used in perfumes and traditional medicines.

Name Story

Japanese snowbell: The japanese Snowbell earns its common name for its snowy white flowers that bloom during May and June. These flowers are pendulous, with delicate yellow stamens, and resemble many tiny bells.

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Quickly Identify Japanese Snowbell

White campanulate flowers with yellow stamens less than 1 inch (2.5 cm) in size.

Broad-elliptic leaves measuring 1-3 inches (2.5-7.5 cm) with shiny dark green surfaces.

Distinctive zigzag-patterned light brown stems, 0.5 to 1 inch (1.2 to 2.5 cm) in diameter.

Ovoid gray-white dry drupe fruit with a single seed, hanging pendulously from branches.

Textured gray-brown bark with orange fissures forming intricate patterns on the trunk.

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Care Guide for Japanese Snowbell

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Japanese Snowbell prefers moderate moisture, thriving in well-distributed rainfall. It requires consistent soil moisture, with watering every three weeks. As a deciduous species, japanese Snowbell sheds leaves in cooler temperatures, adapting to conserve resources during less favorable seasons.

Fertilize: To enhance japanese Snowbell's growth and flowering, apply balanced 10-10-10 NPK fertilizers biannually in spring and mid-summer, following product guidelines. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent root burn. For young japanese Snowbell, use smaller amounts to encourage root development. Mulching retains moisture and adds nutrients.

Pruning: Japanese Snowbell features elegant white flowers and graceful branches. Prune in early spring, removing dead or crossed branches to improve health and shape. Thinning promotes air circulation and light penetration for better blooms. Use clean, sharp tools to prevent disease risk.

Propagation: Japanese Snowbell is a delicate ornamental tree celebrated for its bell-shaped white flowers. Propagation involves slow germination from fresh seeds in well-draining soil. Proper moisture management is crucial for root health. Once seedlings mature, they can be transplanted to their final location.

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