Styrax spp.
snowbell
Overview
Styrax is a genus of about 130 species of deciduous and evergreen trees and shrubs in the family Styracaceae, native to warm-temperate and tropical regions of eastern Asia, the Americas, and the Mediterranean. Known as snowbells or storax, the plants grow from large shrubs to trees 10-40 feet (3-12 m) tall, with simple alternate leaves and a spreading, often layered branch pattern. In late spring and early summer they carry pendulous, bell-shaped white (sometimes pink) flowers, usually fragrant, hanging in clusters or rows along the undersides of the branches. The most cultivated species, S. japonicus, the Japanese snowbell, is grown for its tiered habit and hanging flowers. Drupes follow, ripening to grey-green. Some species, including S. benzoin and S. officinalis, yield the aromatic resin benzoin or storax. Styrax grows in moist, acidic, well-drained, humus-rich soil in full sun to part shade, with shelter from drying wind. It is intolerant of drought, alkaline soil, and waterlogging, and the flowers hang beneath the branches, visible from below.
Native Range
Styrax is native to warm-temperate and tropical regions of eastern and southeastern Asia, the Americas, and the Mediterranean. S. japonicus and S. obassia come from Japan, Korea, and China; S. americanus and S. grandifolius grow in the southeastern United States; and S. officinalis occurs around the Mediterranean.Suggested Uses
Styrax is grown as a specimen and small shade tree in woodland gardens, lawns, courtyards, and mixed borders for its hanging early-summer flowers and layered branches. Smaller and shrubby species suit shaded borders and patios. It is used where soil is acidic and moisture is reliable.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height10' - 40'
Width/Spread10' - 30'
Bloom Information
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 4-8 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