Epaulette Tree Pterostyrax corymbosa
ABOUT
Pterostyrax corymbosa, commonly known as the epaulette tree, is an ornamental plant noted for its distinctive appearance. The plant is characterized by its long, arching branches which are gracefully adorned with a profusion of flowers. The flowers showcase a creamy-white palette and occur in eye-catching, clustered corymbs at the ends of the branches. These blooms emit a pleasing fragrance that can attract various pollinators. The leaves of the epaulette tree are deciduous, which means they shed seasonally. Each leaf manifests an ovate to broad-elliptic shape, bearing a serrated margin that adds texture to the foliage. The color of the leaves is typically a fresh green, which can turn into vibrant yellow tones before they fall during the autumn season, adding another layer of visual interest. The overall appearance of the epaulette tree is quite showy when in bloom, making it a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers who aim to create a focal point in their green spaces. Despite its ornamental charm, the specific dimensional attributes are to be disregarded in this description.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Styracaceae
Synonyms
Epaulette Tree, Fragrant Epaulette Tree
Common names
Halesia corymbosa, Pterostyrax hispidus.
ToxicityTo humans
The Pterostyrax corymbosa, commonly known as the epaulette tree, does not have a widely recognized reputation for being toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning or toxic effects from ingesting parts of this plant. As with any plant, individual sensitivities can vary, and it is generally advisable to avoid consuming parts of plants that are not known to be edible.
To pets
Similar to its effects on humans, the epaulette tree is not commonly known to be toxic to pets. There is limited information available on the toxicity of Pterostyrax corymbosa to animals, and it does not appear to be listed as a toxic plant to pets. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion can potentially cause gastrointestinal upset or an allergic reaction in some pets, so it is still wise to prevent pets from ingesting this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
20-30 feet (6-9 meters)
Spread
20-30 feet (6-9 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
5-8
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value - Pterostyrax corymbosa, commonly known as the epaulette tree, is often used in landscape design for its attractive, pendulous flower clusters which add aesthetic appeal to gardens and parks.
- Shade Provision - The epaulette tree can provide shade in gardens and urban settings, making outdoor spaces more comfortable during sunny days.
- Habitat for Wildlife - The flowers of the epaulette tree attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, providing them with necessary resources and contributing to biodiversity.
- Seasonal Interest - With its spring flowering period and autumn leaf color, the epaulette tree offers visual interest in different seasons, enhancing the seasonal dynamics of a garden's design.
- Erosion Control - The root system of the epaulette tree can help stabilize the soil and prevent erosion on slopes or in areas prone to losing topsoil.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Pterostyrax corymbosa, commonly known as epaulette tree, can be used in woodworking projects for its decorative wood grain, though it is not a commonly harvested species for this purpose.
- The fragrant flowers can provide a unique essential oil that can be used in crafting perfumes and fragrances, capturing the sweet scent of the plant.
- The tree's blossoms can be used for ornamental decoration in dried floral arrangements due to their long-lasting nature after being cut.
- Epaulette tree is used in bonsai culture, where its attractive foliage and branching structure make it a desirable species for miniature tree crafting.
- The seeds of the epaulette tree, if polished and treated, can be used in jewelry making as natural beads.
- Artisans may use the fallen dried leaves for creating eco-friendly art pieces or as a natural material in paper-making processes.
- Landscape architects sometimes utilize the Pterostyrax corymbosa for creating shade in urban designs because of its broad canopy.
- In sound barrier landscaping, the tree serves to dampen noise pollution due to its dense foliage.
- As a teaching tool in horticulture and botany classes, it serves as an example of a less common ornamental species.
- Photographers and filmmakers might feature the epaulette tree in their works to capture the striking aesthetic its cascading flower clusters provide.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Epiphyllum oxypetalum is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Epiphyllum oxypetalum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Pterostyrax corymbosa, commonly known as the Epaulette Tree, can withstand varying climate conditions, symbolizing the ability to adapt and thrive through the challenges of life.
- Elegance: The cascading flowers of the Epaulette Tree are considered graceful and exquisite, representing beauty and sophistication in the plant world.
- Rarity: As it is not commonly found in every landscape, the Epaulette Tree symbolizes uniqueness and the value of rare entities.
- Renewal: With its seasonal bloom, the Epaulette Tree signifies renewal and the cycle of life, serving as a reminder of new beginnings and rebirth.
WaterThe Japanese snowbell, or Pterostyrax corymbosa, prefers consistent moisture and should be watered approximately once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Depending on the weather and the size of your plant, the amount of water may vary, but a general guideline is to provide about 1-2 gallons each week during the growing season. In the winter, reduce watering to every other week or less, depending on the plant's environment and the moisture level of the soil.
LightThe Japanese snowbell thrives in partial shade to full sun conditions. It performs best when planted where it receives morning sun and some afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates, to protect it from the most intense rays of the day.
TemperatureFor the Japanese snowbell, the ideal temperature range during the growing season is between 60°F and 80°F. It can tolerate a minimum temperature down to approximately 20°F but should be protected from hard freezes. Avoid exposing the tree to extremes of hot or cold to maintain its health and vitality.
PruningPrune the Japanese snowbell during late winter or early spring before new growth begins to shape the tree and remove any dead or broken branches. Light pruning to maintain the desired shape and remove any crossed or rubbing branches can be done annually, while more substantial pruning should be done sparingly to avoid excessive stress on the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Epiphyllum (common name for Pterostyrax corymbosa) should be well-draining with high organic matter. A mix of peat, pine bark, and perlite in equal parts is suitable. The soil pH should ideally be slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingEpiphyllums should be repotted every 2 to 3 years, or when they outgrow their pots. Spring is the best time for repotting this plant to allow for vigorous growth.
Humidity & MistingEpiphyllum requires moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 40% and 60%. Providing a humid environment is essential for the plant’s health.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure high humidity.
Outdoor
Partial shade, shelter from winds, and moist, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
7-9 USDA
Life cyclePterostyrax corymbosa, commonly known as the epaulette tree, begins its life cycle as a seed, which when provided with adequate conditions of warmth, moisture, and soil, will germinate. The seedling stage follows, characterized by the initial sprout emerging from the soil and the formation of the first true leaves, utilizing stored energy from the seed. As the epaulette tree advances into the juvenile stage, it develops a more robust root system and increased leaf area, steadily growing in height and girth. The mature phase sees the tree reach its full size, producing distinctive fragrant, white, and pendulous flowers arranged in epaulette-like clusters during late spring to early summer, which are attractive to pollinators. Following pollination, the tree produces small, winged fruit that disperse to continue the species' propagation cycle. Finally, after many years, the epaulette tree enters senescence, where growth slows and the tree may become susceptible to environmental stresses, eventually leading to the tree's death.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Propogation: Pterostyrax corymbosa, commonly known as the Epiphyllum or Fragrant Epaulette Tree, is typically propagated by seed. The best time for sowing the seeds is in spring, just after the last frost when the temperatures are consistently above 55 degrees Fahrenheit (about 13 degrees Celsius). For successful propagation, the seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and lightly covered with soil or vermiculite. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and provide bright, indirect light. The seeds can take several weeks to germinate, and after germination, it's important to ensure consistent moisture and to transplant the seedlings when they are large enough to handle.
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