Snowbell | Plant Profile

Snowbell (Styrax japonicus) are small to medium deciduous trees with a single stem and rounded shape. The most ornamental feature of these trees are the drooping clusters of fragrant white flowers. The gray bark exfoliates in winter to reveal an orange interior. The dark green leaves rarely have ornamental fall color but may turn yellow or red.

Snowbell prefers fertile and acidic soils in full sun to part shade. The soil should have medium moisture and be well drained. Some pruning can be done in winter to shape the tree.

Snowbell can be planted singularly as ornamental focal points or massed as shrub borders. They are also popular in woodland or naturalized areas.