Pterostyrax corymbosus
Little Epaulettetree
Mature Size, Growth, Longevity
Becomes a small tree or a large shrub. Average mature size of 15-30' tall and wide, sometimes wider, and more shrub-like. Medium growth rate, possibly fast with adequate water and nutrients.
Native Range
Native to Japan & eastern China in damp, shaded areas along streams. Introduced 1850.
Flower and Fruit Details
Flowers are white, w/ yellow anthers, bell-shaped, fragrant, in very showy, 3-6" long, pendant clusters of corymbose panicles in May/June, w/ 5 petals per flower. Flowers best in hot, sunny conditions. Fruit is an oblong dry drupe, ovoid, 3/8" by 1/2", 5-winged, & downy pubescent, w/ 1-2 seeds. Fruits are green/yellow/tan/brown. "Ptero-styrax" means "winged-Styrax", referring to the wings on the fruit, unlike the fruits of the related Styrax.
Leaf and Bark Features
Deciduous: Leaves are simple, alternate, 2-4.5" long, oblong-ovate, acute to short acuminate at the tip, w/ bristly teeth (finely serrulate) around the margin, bright green above, lighter green to silvery beneath. Leaves are thicker & fleshier than P. hispida. Summer foliage is usually clean and healthy. Yellow-green to yellow or bronze/yellow-brown fall color, but not especially showy, but is good some years. Young stems w/ stringy, gray bark, w/ a distinct, fetid odor when bruised. Bark is gray and quickly shedding.
Culture and Care
Prefers moist, well-drained, very acid to neutral, sandy loam soil in full sun to part shade. Protect from wind and temperature extremes, especially in Zone 5. Prune in late winter or early spring while still dormant. Zone 5-7. Heat tolerant. No serious disease or insect problems.
Strengths, Weaknesses, Other Facts
3-season interest: Spring, summer & fall. The name, "Epaulettetree" refers to how the flowers hang from one side and resemble the epaulettes (decorative, ornamental shoulder pieces) found on some military uniforms.
Suggested Uses
Good for the smaller landscape. Good specimen, and also makes good honeybee food. Blooms when few other trees are flowering.