Styrax americanus – American Snowbells (BTF.MTH.NB.OP.SHWY)

Ecosystem Services:
(B)-Birds                                             (B&B)-Birds & Butterflies

(BTF)-Butterflies                             (BW)-Black Walnut Resistant

(DR)-Deer Resistant                      (DRGHT)-Drought Resistant

(EC)-Erosion Control                    (EVR)-Evergreen

(FC)-Fall Color                                 (FRG)-Fragrant

(GRD)-Groundcover                      (H)-Host plant

(HMR)-Hummingbirds                (M)-Mammals

(MTH)-Moths                                   (N)-Nectar

(NB)-Native Bees                            (NST)-Nesting Material

(OP)-Other pollinators                 (RR)-Rabbit Resistant

(SHWY)-Showy                                (SPC)-Specimen Plant

American snowbell is a native small tree or large shrub in the Styracaceae (silver bells) family.

This slender branched woody ornamental is native to the southeastern US and can be found growing in swamps, marshy areas, stream banks, and other wet locations.

Plant in full sun to partial shade in rich, acidic, well drained sandy loam based soils.  It is tolerant of wet soils.  When mature it reaches a height and width of 6 to 10 feet with a wide, open crown and dense, uniform branches that originate from the base and up the main trunk.  In the spring pendulous rounded clusters or single bell-like blooms of white flowers exude an aura of sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators like bees, butterflies, and moths.   After flowering has completed, hairy fruits emerge.  American silverbells does not sucker from the roots.

Use this flowering small tree or shrub as a specimen in wet areas of the landscape in a woodland garden, or in small groups as a backdrop to a border or for screening.  Planting it near a patio will ensure the enjoyment of the fragrant blooms.

Host plant for the Promethea silkmoth (Callosamia promethea).