Halesia tetraptera, commonly known as Mountain Silverbell, is a deciduous tree native to the rich, moist, well-drained soils of deciduous forests in the Southeastern United States, particularly in the Appalachian Mountains. It typically grows to about 10 meters tall with a similar spread, and has a rounded to vase-shaped form. The leaves are ovate to lanceolate, measuring 5–16 cm in length and 4–7 cm in width, turning yellow in the fall. The bell-shaped flowers are 1–2.5 cm long, with a four-lobed white corolla, blooming in late spring to early summer and are quite showy. The distinctive fruit is a dry drupe, approximately 4 cm long, with four wing-like extensions running along its length, maturing in late summer to early fall.

Mountain Silverbell is valued for its attractive, pendulous white flowers and unique winged fruit, making it a popular choice for ornamental use in residential landscapes, parks, and botanical gardens. It is also appreciated for its relatively low maintenance requirements once established. This tree prefers partial shade to full sun and adapts to a range of soil conditions, though it thrives in acidic, moist, well-drained soils. While it is not known for serious pest or disease issues, it can occasionally suffer from leaf spots or cankers. Gardeners should be aware that it may require some space to accommodate its mature size.CC BY-SA 4.0