WSU Clark County Extension
PNW Plants Searchable, categorized images

Fragrant Snowbell

Scientific name: Styrax obassia
Taxonomy
Family:Styracaceae
Type:Deciduous tree
Native:NO
Plant Requirements
Zone:5 to 8
Sun:Full sun
Moisture:Dry
Plant Characteristics
Height:30 ft
Width:20 ft
Bloom:Fragrant flowers
Bloom Time:May to June
Bloom Color:White
Additional Characteristics
Trees


Fruit

Leaves


Bark
Wildlife value

Poisonous
Description Fragrant Snowbell gains its name from the spring show of fragrant white clusters of pendulous flowers. Also known as Fragrant Styrax.

  Morphology:
This is a deciduous tree that grows to 30’ in height but only 20’ in width. It develops a pyramidal canopy with time with ascending limbs.

Leaves are arranged in an alternate fashion. Leaves are simple and 3”-8” long.

Fragrant Snowbell differs from Japanese Snowbell. The former is hardier and coarser in appearance. The leaves on Fragrant are ovate in shape and considerably larger than its cousin.

Flowering begins in late May and extends into June. After the flowers fade small dry balls are formed. The flowers are held in a 4”-8” long chains of white flowers.

Stems are reddish brown and exfoliating.

  Adaptation:
This plant likes full sun. It is not particular in terms of soil moisture. Do however avoid the heavy clay sites.

  Pests:
No pests or diseases of major concern.
For assistance, contact Dr. Charles Brun (brunc@wsu.edu), (360) 397-6060 5701
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