About

This large shrub or small tree to around 4m high, with an upright, bushy habit and broadly oval, slightly glossy rich green leaves. Clusters of pendent, bell-shaped pale pink flowers are produced along the undersides of the branches in early summer. New leaves emerge deep purple and retain a purplish tint when grown in full sun. Leaves turn yellow and orange in autumn.

About the genus

Styrax can be deciduous or evergreen trees or shrubs with simple, alternate leaves and nodding bell-shaped, fragrant white flowers in spring or summer

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5

Plant details

Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitBushy, Columnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden

Care notes

CultivationThrives in moist but well-drained, loamy, acid to neutral soil, in full or afternoon sun. Provide shelter from cold drying winds
PruningMinimal pruning required, see pruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings in summer, or by grafting in winter
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus in gardens where it is present but insufficient data to determine degree of susceptibility