Hoyt Arboretum, Portland, Oregon, USA

Common name: Emerald Pagoda Japanese Snowbell

Family: Styracaceae

Distribution: Sohuksan Island

Habitat: Snowbell prefers a peaty, acid soil that is moist but not waterlogged

IUCN Red list: Not evaluated

Hardiness: Zone 7b 5 to 10 F

Life form: Deciduous tree

Usage: Ornamental shade tree

Comments: Emerald pagoda snowbell was selected by the late J.C. Raulston at North Carolina State University and the U.S. National Arboretum. It was brought back as cuttings from Korea because the wild plant showed exceptional vigor and was markedly distinct from the native population. It is the most vigorous and largest flowered of the Styrax japonicus selections. The star-like flowers are one inch across and slightly fragrant and are almost more beautiful when they begin to drop and carpet the ground beneath the tree. This selection has larger than average leaves that are dark green and leathery in texture. It will grow as an understory tree or make a striking specimen in an open situation. Fall color is a luminous yellow. If grown in the woodland combine with ferns, hostas, Solomon's seal, epimediums and the like. This styrax selection is considered by some to be the most distinctive and striking.
This lovely layered tree thrives in full sun or part shade. It does best with well-drained soil, but can tolerate sand or clay. Once established it only needs occasional watering during the summer. A yearly thinning of dead, weak and twiggy growth will keep this tree looking its best.