Staphylea japonica, commonly known as Japanese Bladdernut, is a deciduous shrub native to the forest edges and stream banks of East Asia, including Japan, Korea, and parts of China. It exhibits a moderate growth rate, reaching heights of 12-20 feet (3.7-6 meters) and a spread of 10-15 feet (3-4.6 meters). The plant forms a rounded to vase-shaped habit with multiple stems and is noted for its panicles of bell-shaped white or cream flowers that bloom in late spring, providing a showy display. The flowers are followed by distinctive, inflated, bladder-like seed pods which add ornamental interest. Japanese Bladdernut is valued for its attractive foliage, which turns yellow in the fall, and its overall ease of maintenance.

In the garden, Japanese Bladdernut is used for border planting, as a specimen, or in naturalized areas. It thrives in partial shade to full sun and prefers well-drained loamy or sandy soils, although it is adaptable to various soil types. Regular watering is important, especially in dry conditions. While generally free from serious pests and diseases, it can occasionally suffer from leaf spots or blight. This shrub is not known for aggressive roots or invasiveness, making it a reliable choice for residential landscapes.CC BY-SA 4.0