Fragrant Snowbell

The Fragrant Snowbell (Styrax obassia) is a small- to medium-sized flowering ornamental tree. It has an upright, pyramidal habit as a young tree and becomes more rounded with age. In late spring, sweetly fragrant, bell-shaped, white flowers with yellow centers emerge from the tree and droop below the branches. The large, oval, pointed, velvety green leaves are attractive but may sometimes obscure the view of the flowers. They turn nice shades of orange in the fall. The bark is smooth and gray, often exfoliating on very mature trees to reveal orange inner bark which livens up the winter landscape.  

The Fragrant Snowbell is native to Japan, Korea, and Manchuria. It first started being cultivated in 1870. This species differs from other Styrax by its larger, more rounded leaves and sweeter smelling flowers. It makes a beautiful specimen tree in the yard for its multiple seasons of ornamental interest and attractive form. It also can be a standout understory tree in a more natural setting or an accent piece in a large garden. Does best in full to partial sun and likes moist, well-draining, acidic soils.