Styrax obassia (Fragrant Snowbell)

Very showy and desirable, Styrax obassia (Fragrant Snowbell) is a small, upright deciduous tree or large shrub of rounded habit with multi-season interest. In late spring to early summer, masses of fragrant, bell-shaped, glistening white flowers with showy golden-yellow stamens, appear in pendulous racemes, up to 8 in. long (20 cm). Despite flowering after the leaves have fully emerged, the sheer volume of flowers creates a stunning display. The bold foliage of large, broadly-ovate or rounded, dark green leaves, transitions to golden yellow in the fall. The smooth gray bark exfoliates on older specimens, revealing orange-brown vertical fissures that add winter interest. A great patio tree where fragrance, flowers and bark can be enjoyed.

• Grows slowly up to 20-30 ft. tall (6-9 m) and 15-25 ft. wide (4-8 m)
• A full sun to part shade lover, this plant is best grown in moist, humus-rich, fertile, well-drained soils. Provide a site sheltered from cold, dry winds. Once established, it only needs occasional watering during the summer
• Perfect as a specimen plant or for beds and borders. Great flowering tree for cottage gardens or woodland gardens.
• Virtually pest and disease free.
• Prune in winter to control shape.
• Propagate from seed or by softwood cuttings
• Native to Japan