Pterostyrax encompasses either deciduous trees or sizable shrubs characterized by their shedding bark. The foliage consists of simple leaves, and the plants produce hanging clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers with five lobes that emerge beneath the branches. These flowers later give way to small, ribbed fruits.

Pterostyrax

Pterostyrax corymbosus is a substantial, spreading deciduous shrub or small tree. Its leaves are pointed and oval, displaying a vibrant green that transitions to yellow as autumn approaches. In late spring and early summer, this plant produces drooping clusters of small, fragrant white flowers, which are succeeded by distinctive five-ribbed fruits.

Pterostyrax corymbosus

Pterostyrax hispidus is a broad, deciduous shrub or small tree characterized by its oval leaves that can reach lengths of up to 20 cm. It produces hanging clusters of small, fragrant white blooms, followed by slender, spindle-like fruits that are adorned with fine, light brown hairs.

Pterostyrax hispidus

Pterostyrax psilophyllus is a deciduous tree that can reach heights of up to 15 meters. Its leaves are oblong to elliptic in shape, measuring as much as 15 centimeters in length, and feature bristle-like teeth along the edges. The undersides of the leaves are covered in a grey down, which may take on yellow and bronze hues in the fall. In late spring and early summer, this tree produces fragrant white flowers arranged in panicles that can grow to 15 centimeters long. These flowers are succeeded by ribbed, bristly fruits that measure up to 2.5 centimeters in length.

Pterostyrax psilophyllus

Pterostyrax psilophyllus trilobed

Pterostyrax psilophyllus var. leveillei is a deciduous tree that can reach heights of up to 15 meters. Its leaves are distinctive, featuring three lobes and bristle-like teeth, measuring as long as 15 centimeters. The undersides of the leaves have a greyish fuzz. This species produces clusters of fragrant white flowers, which are succeeded by ribbed fruits that can grow to about 2.5 centimeters in length, covered in bristles.