Japanese Snowbell Styrax japonicus Marley's Pink Parasol = 'JLWeeping'
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ABOUT
The plant in question, commonly known as the Japanese Snowbell, is a graceful and attractive variety renowned for its unique growth habit and beautiful floral display. It is characterized by branches that sweep downwards in an elegant, weeping fashion. As the name 'Marley's Pink Parasol' suggests, this cultivar has an umbrella-like canopy that adds to its charm and ornamental value. The leaves of this Japanese Snowbell are a vibrant green, which contrasts beautifully with the pink flowers it produces. The foliage tends to be lush and dense, providing a rich backdrop for the blooms. Each leaf has a rounded shape with a pointed tip, offering a delicate texture to the overall appearance of the tree. During the blooming season, this plant is adorned with an abundance of bell-shaped flowers. The petals are a soft pink hue, exuding a gentle and welcoming presence in a garden setting. The flowers dangle from the branches, creating a picturesque scene as they sway in the breeze. In addition to its visual appeal, the flowers emit a subtle and pleasing fragrance, which attracts pollinators and adds a sensory dimension to its attractive qualities. When the flowering season concludes, small, rounded fruits may develop, although they are more ornamental than edible. The weeping habit coupled with the delightful flowers and their sweet scent makes the Japanese Snowbell 'Marley's Pink Parasol' an excellent choice for those looking to add a touch of elegance and visual interest to their gardens.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Styracaceae.
Synonyms
Japanese Snowbell, Marley's Pink Parasol Japanese Snowbell, Pink Weeping Snowbell, Weeping Japanese Styrax.
Common names
Styrax japonicus 'JLWeeping'.
ToxicityTo humans
Information about the Japanese Snowbell 'Marley's Pink Parasol' specific toxicity to humans is limited. However, the genus Styrax is generally not known for being highly toxic to humans. It is always advisable to be cautious and avoid ingesting parts of ornamental plants as they might cause mild stomach upset or allergic reactions in some individuals. There is no well-documented case of serious poisoning from consuming parts of this plant. However, as with any plant, individual sensitivities can vary, and it is best to keep plant parts out of the reach of children who might inadvertently ingest them.
To pets
The Japanese Snowbell 'Marley's Pink Parasol' does not have a reputation for being highly toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. While it's typically safe around pets, ingestion of plant material can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, in some animals due to the novelty and fiber content rather than specific toxins. If you suspect your pet has ingested a significant amount of the plant and is showing adverse symptoms, it's always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian. However, in general, the Japanese Snowbell 'Marley's Pink Parasol' is not considered a high-risk plant for pets compared to other more toxic plants.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
5-6 feet [1.5-1.8 meters]
Spread
5-6 feet [1.5-1.8 meters]
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
5-8
Native area
Japan Korea
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Marley's Pink Parasol is prized for its weeping habit and pink bell-shaped flowers, providing a striking visual appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Compact Size: With its compact growth, it is suitable for small gardens, patios, or as a specimen plant in landscape designs.
- Seasonal Interest: This plant offers a long blooming season in spring, followed by striking seed pods in the fall, providing multi-season interest.
- Attracts Wildlife: The flowers of the Japanese Snowbell attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, enhancing biodiversity.
- Shade Tolerance: It can grow well in partial shade, making it versatile for various garden settings that have dappled light conditions.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, it is relatively low maintenance, requiring minimal pruning and care.
- Drought Tolerance: While it prefers moist conditions, it can tolerate periods of drought once established, making it relatively resilient in variable conditions.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Perfume Industry: The fragrant flowers of the Japanese snowbell can be used in the perfume industry as a source of natural fragrance.
- Photography: The picturesque weeping form of this tree makes it an excellent subject for garden and landscape photography.
- Bonsai: Due to its graceful appearance, the Japanese snowbell can be cultivated as a bonsai for ornamental purposes.
- Sound Therapy: The gentle rustling of its leaves in the wind can be used in sound therapy sessions to create a calming atmosphere.
- Art Inspiration: The unique form and blooms of the tree can serve as a muse for artists, inspiring paintings, drawings, and other artwork.
- Educational Tool: Botany enthusiasts can study the Japanese snowbell's growth habits and characteristics as an educational resource.
- Wedding Decor: Its pendulous branches and pink flowers can serve as a natural decor element for garden weddings.
- Culinary Presentation: Though not for consumption, its branches and flowers might be used for plating and presentation in high-end culinary settings.
- Feng Shui: This tree may be used in the practice of Feng Shui to balance energies in a garden space due to its harmonious form.
- Seasonal Celebrations: In areas where its blooming coincides with particular local festivals, the Japanese snowbell can be integrated into seasonal decorations.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Japanese Snowbell is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Japanese Snowbell is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Grace and Elegance: The weeping form of the Japanese Snowbell 'Marley's Pink Parasol' can symbolize grace and elegance due to its flowing, pendulous branches that create a delicate and sophisticated silhouette.
- Purity and Renewal: As a flowering tree that blooms with gentle, bell-shaped flowers, it's often associated with purity and the renewal that comes with springtime.
- Femininity: The 'Marley's Pink Parasol' cultivar, with its pink blossoms, could represent femininity or qualities traditionally viewed as gentle and nurturing.
- Peace and Tranquility: Its lush green foliage can offer a sense of tranquility, making it a symbol for places intended for contemplation or serenity, such as gardens and memorial parks.
WaterThe Japanese Snowbell 'Marley's Pink Parasol' requires consistent moisture, particularly in dry conditions. Water the plant deeply once a week, making sure to soak the root zone thoroughly. During periods of extreme heat or drought, increase watering frequency to twice a week. Aim for about 1-1.5 gallons per watering session, ensuring the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. It's crucial to avoid overhead watering to prevent disease; instead, water directly at the base of the plant.
LightJapanese Snowbell 'Marley's Pink Parasol' thrives best in full sun to partial shade. It will benefit from morning sunlight with dappled afternoon shade, especially in hotter regions. An ideal spot would be on the east or northeast side of a garden where it can receive ample morning light without being exposed to intense afternoon sun.
TemperatureThe Japanese Snowbell 'Marley's Pink Parasol' prefers moderate temperatures and can generally withstand a range from 20°F to 85°F. It is hardy to USDA zones 5-8, which corresponds to minimum winter temperatures of -20°F to -10°F. Ideal growing temperatures are between 60°F and 75°F, promoting optimal growth and flowering.
PruningPrune the Japanese Snowbell 'Marley's Pink Parasol' to maintain its shape and remove any dead or crossed branches to promote healthy growth. The best time for pruning is in late winter or early spring before the onset of new growth. Pruning should be done sparingly, as this weeping variety naturally forms an attractive shape.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Japanese Snowbell 'Marley's Pink Parasol' requires well-draining soil enriched with organic matter, a soil pH between 5.5 and 7.5, and even moisture without waterlogging. A mix of loamy garden soil, compost, and some sand or perlite to improve drainage would be ideal for this plant.
RepottingJapanese Snowbell 'Marley's Pink Parasol' should be repotted every 2-3 years in spring before the onset of new growth, or when it has outgrown its current container.
Humidity & MistingJapanese Snowbell 'Marley's Pink Parasol' prefers moderate humidity. Aim to maintain humidity levels around 40-60% for optimal growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and maintain moderate humidity.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, protect from strong winds, and mulch soil.
Hardiness zone
5-8 USDA.
Life cycleStyrax japonicus 'Marley's Pink Parasol', commonly known as Japanese Snowbell, begins its life cycle as a seed, which upon germination in suitable soil and environmental conditions, sprouts into a seedling. The seedling then develops into a young plant, establishing a strong root system and beginning to grow its characteristic weeping branches and dark green leaves. During its growth phase, the plant steadily matures, eventually reaching its full size and form, adorned with bell-shaped pink flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. After pollination, typically by insects, the flowers produce drupes (fruits) that contain seeds, thereby completing the reproductive cycle. Japanese Snowbell enters a phase of dormancy during the colder months, which allows it to conserve energy and survive winter conditions. Over the years, with proper care, the plant can live several decades, continually growing, flowering, and producing seeds throughout its lifespan.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Styrax japonicus Marley's Pink Parasol, commonly known as Japanese Snowbell, is typically propagated by softwood cuttings. This method is most successful when performed in late spring to early summer when new growth is soft but mature enough to handle without wilting. Cuttings taken should be about 4 to 6 inches long with several leaves. The bottom end of the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. It is then placed in a well-draining potting mix, keeping the humidity high around the cuttings by covering them with a plastic bag or placing them in a greenhouse. Roots usually develop within a few weeks, after which the new plants can be gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions before being planted in their permanent locations.
