Carolina Silverbell

(Halesia carolina)

Carolina Silverbell (Halesia carolina)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Halesia carolina, commonly known as Carolina Silverbell, is a deciduous tree or large shrub native to the understory of deciduous forests in the Southeastern United States, particularly thriving along streams and in moist, well-drained soils. It typically grows to 8 m (26 ft) tall and 10 m (33 ft) wide, with a rounded form. The plant is renowned for its showy, bell-shaped white flowers that hang in clusters, blooming profusely in spring before the foliage emerges. These are followed by distinctive, four-winged drupes that mature to a dry, brown color. In autumn, the foliage turns a clear yellow, adding seasonal interest.

Carolina Silverbell is valued for its ornamental flowers and is often used in residential landscapes, public gardens, and naturalized woodland settings. It is relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal pruning. While it prefers acidic to neutral soil, it can tolerate a range of soil types as long as they are well-drained. It is best situated in full sun to part shade and requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. This species is not typically associated with serious pest or disease problems, but it can be susceptible to leaf spot and canker in poor conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 30-40 feet
  • Width: 20-35 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fire Resistant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Understory of deciduous forests, particularly along streams and in moist, well-drained soils

Other Names

Common Names: Silverbell, Florida Silverbell, Mountain Silverbell, Silverbell-Tree, Snowdroptree, Little Silverbell, Sneeuwklokjesboom, Snödroppsträd, Storblommigt Snödroppsträd

Scientific Names: , Halesia carolina, Halesia tetraptera var. tetraptera, Halesia parviflora, Halesia monticola f. rosea, Halesia carolina var. meehanii, Halesia carolina var. mollis, Halesia tetraptera f. dialypetala, Mohrodendron carolinum, Halesia tetraptera f. stenocarpa

GBIF Accepted Name: Halesia carolina L.