Seven-Son Flower
 

Mature Size, Growth, Longevity

Average mature size of 15-20' tall and 7-10' wide. Medium growth rate.

Native Range

China, Zhejiang Province.

Flower and Fruit Details

Flower buds appear in early summer, but do not open until August, lingering until September. Individual flowers are quite small, creamy white, and fragrant, borne in a tiered, six-flowered whorl with a seventh center terminal flower. Fruits are capsules, with calyx that persist and change from green to rose-purple.

Leaf and Bark Features

Fall color is soft green to mild yellow at best. Bark is reddish-brown and peels off in thin strips revealing gray-brown to beige colors underneath.

Culture and Care

Prefers moist, acid, well-drained, organic soils. Some dieback has occurred, probably canker related.

Strengths, Weaknesses, Other Facts

The name heptacodium is an allusion to the seven-flowered thryselike inflorescences (hepta_ = seven).

Suggested Uses

Perfect for use as a specimen plant in a small area, also possibly as a hedge or border.

Taxa and Plants of this Species at BCA