Overview
Pterostyrax is a bushy shrubs in the genus Pterostyrax, part of the Styracaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Pterostyrax grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include architectural and low maintenance.
About
Pterostyrax is a genus of deciduous trees or large shrubs known for their shedding bark and simple leaves. This bushy cultivar thrives in fertile, well-drained soil and can be grown in full sun or partial shade, ideally in a sheltered, south- or west-facing position. It produces hanging clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers with five lobes beneath the branches in spring and summer, which later develop into small, ribbed fruits. Suitable for architectural planting and low-maintenance gardens, it is hardy to UK zone H5 and prefers clay, loam, or sand soils with acid to neutral pH.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Pterostyrax
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Pterostyrax size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs, Trees
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Architectural, Low Maintenance
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Pterostyrax
- Propagation
- Seed sown in a coldframe or seedbed in autumn, Semi-hardwood cuttings in summer
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Pterostyrax?
Pterostyrax prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Pterostyrax need?
Pterostyrax is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including clay, loam and sand. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Pterostyrax hardy in the UK?
Pterostyrax has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Pterostyrax?
Seed sown in a coldframe or seedbed in autumn, Semi-hardwood cuttings in summer.