Pterostyrax Hispidus / Fragrant Epaulette tree

I am wondering if anyone has this one growing and what they know about its habits. I know that it grows to 25 to 30' and has large white flowers etc. The requirements for soil type, how far north have you seen it, and rooting habits are more what I am interested in. Also how much water is needed to support this tree? What does it smell like? And finally Bloom Time?

Hi Sofer,

I have one I grew from seed which I've planted in my neighbor's yard. Right now it's looking pretty toasty since it leafed out just in time for winter's encore. I've only grown it for a few years but this I can tell you. I never water the stuff on the other side of the fence and it has never wilted, so it is drought tolerant. The soil over there is pretty ordinary and it does fine. I can't tell yet what the roots will be like.

Pterostyrax hispida is a much coarser tree than any of the Styrax, except for the possible exception of Styrax obassia, which, despite its large leaves, generally present a pleasing outline in the garden. Pterostyrax corymbosa, from the few times I've viewed this tree at Mt. Airy Arboretum, seems much more Styrax like in form and coarseness, although probably larger. I've seen neither Pterostyrax in flower yet.

I will now go to my files and see what photos I can unearth of these trees. The first one I found is P. hispida at Spring Grove. It looks like their tree is pretty young too.

scott

P. hispida foliage.

Scott

P. hispida fruit.

Scott

Pterostyrax corymbosa at Mt. Airy.

Scott

P. corymbosa fruit.

Scott

I got some photos also but none with the blossom fresh. I suspect it is similar to the halesia in shape. Boy is the halesia you sent excited. I placed it on the edge of the woodland. It will have lots of sun from 3pm to 10pm sunset. (June of course) But it has a view of the elk pastures and will be able to see the baby calves playing near its feet.

It'll sure know that it's not in Ohio any more!

Scott

Scott look at this tree I planted yesterday. Do you think I can save it? : ] I am collecting old snags and planting them in my woodland.

I think that boulder in the background has more chance of springing to live than that snag, but give it that old college try! Report back to us if you have success.

Scott

I noticed this Pterostyrax hispida flowering today and took some pictures. I remembered this thread and thought you'd want the flower image. Didn't notice an aroma to the blooms.

Thank you Growin it is beautiful I am still looking for one growing in zone 4 or 5. Anyone out there have one in the cold north?