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Heptacodium spp.
seven-son flower
Overview
Heptacodium is a monotypic genus in the family Caprifoliaceae, represented by Heptacodium miconioides, a deciduous large shrub or small tree native to China. Plants reach 15-20 feet (4.5-6 m) tall and 8-12 feet (2.4-3.7 m) wide, with arching multiple stems and tan to gray bark that peels in long vertical strips to reveal paler underbark. The opposite leaves are oval, 3-6 inches (7.5-15 cm) long, with three prominent veins and a slightly puckered surface. In late summer and early autumn the plant carries tiered clusters of small, fragrant creamy-white flowers arranged in groups of seven, the source of the common name seven-son flower. After the petals fall, the calyces enlarge and turn rosy-pink to red, holding their color for several weeks into autumn. The genus grows on rocky slopes and in woodland in central China and is hardy to about USDA zone 5. It needs full sun for heavy flowering and tolerates a range of soils, though young plants can be loose and open and need formative pruning to build a stronger framework.
Native Range
Heptacodium miconioides is native to China, where it grows on rocky slopes, cliffs, and in woodland in the eastern and central provinces. It is rare in the wild and was introduced to Western gardens in the 20th century.Suggested Uses
Heptacodium is grown as a specimen shrub or small tree, in shrub borders, and in pollinator gardens for its late-season flowers and winter bark. It is also planted along streets and in courtyards where space is limited.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height15' - 20'
Width/Spread8' - 12'
Bloom Information
Heptacodium flowers in late summer to early autumn, generally August through September, a season when few large shrubs bloom. The fragrant creamy-white flowers open in tiered clusters and draw bees and butterflies. As the flowers fade, the calyces expand and turn rosy-pink to red, extending color into October.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
medium greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-10 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight