Seven-Son Flower

(Heptacodium miconioides)

Seven-Son Flower (Heptacodium miconioides)

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Summary

Heptacodium miconioides, commonly known as Seven-Son Flower, is a deciduous large shrub or small tree native to China, particularly found in woodlands and along streams. It typically grows to a height of 4–9 m (13–30 ft) with a spread of 2–5 m (6.5–16 ft). The plant has a distinctive exfoliating bark that is light tan and peels away in strips, revealing a lighter underbark. From late summer to early fall, it produces clusters of fragrant, small, white flowers that are highly attractive to pollinators such as butterflies and bumblebees. After the flowers, the plant features a showy display of purplish-red bracts that extend the ornamental interest into autumn.

Seven-Son Flower is valued for its late-season blooms, exfoliating bark, and overall hardiness. It is often used in gardens and landscapes for ornamental purposes, as a specimen plant, or in mixed borders. It is adaptable to a range of soil types, provided they have medium drainage, and it thrives in full sun to partial shade. While it is shade-tolerant, flowering is best with more light. Despite its hardiness, it can be susceptible to leaf spots and cankers, and it may require protection from strong winds due to its somewhat brittle branches.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 15-20 feet
  • Width: 8-10 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Rabbit Resistant, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to woodlands and along streams in China

Other Names

Common Names: Seven-Sons Flower, Jasmintry

Scientific Names: , Heptacodium miconioides, Heptacodium jasminoides,

GBIF Accepted Name: Heptacodium miconioides Rehder