Bigleaf Snowbell

(Styrax grandifolius)

Bigleaf Snowbell (Styrax grandifolius)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Styrax grandifolius, commonly known as bigleaf snowbell or bigleaf storax, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the understory of deciduous forests in the southeastern United States, from Virginia to Florida and west to Texas and Missouri. It thrives in upland forests and bluffs, often on well-drained slopes or along stream banks. Bigleaf snowbell typically reaches up to 20 feet in height and spreads 15 to 20 feet wide. It has a rounded, open canopy with large, obovate leaves that are up to 6 inches long and 4 inches wide. The white, bell-shaped flowers are quite showy, blooming in early summer in racemes of up to 20 flowers each, and are followed by dry, woody capsules that persist into winter.

The bigleaf snowbell is valued for its ornamental qualities, including its large, fragrant flowers that attract pollinators such as honeybees, bumblebees, and butterflies. It is ideal for naturalistic plantings, woodland gardens, and shaded borders. This plant prefers partial to full shade and requires well-drained, acidic to neutral soil. It is relatively low maintenance but may need protection from strong winds. While it is not known for serious pest or disease problems, it can be susceptible to leaf spot and canker. Bigleaf snowbell is not typically invasive but should be monitored to ensure it does not spread beyond the desired area.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub, Tree
  • Height: 8-20 feet
  • Width: 6-15 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • 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, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to the understory of deciduous forests, upland forests, bluffs, and along stream banks in the southeastern United States

Other Names

Common Names: Storax, Large-leaf Snowbell

Scientific Names: , Styrax grandifolius, Styrax grandifolius var. grandidentatus, Styrax grandifolius var. grandidentatus, Styrax officinale,

GBIF Accepted Name: