Family: Styracaceae
Author: Lam.
Bibliography: Encycl. 1: 82 (1783)
Year: 1783
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Styrax
Vegetable: False
Observations: C. & E. U.S.A.
Description
The American snowbell, known scientifically as Styrax americanus, is a deciduous shrub or small tree belonging to the Styracaceae family. Described in the authoritative resource “Encyclopedia, Volume 1” in 1783 by the botanist Lam., this charming plant is characterized by its delicate and fragrant white bell-shaped flowers.
Typically found in the central and eastern regions of the United States, the American snowbell thrives in moist, well-drained soils and partially shaded environments. It usually grows to a height of about 6 to 12 feet, making it an excellent choice for garden borders or as an ornamental stand-alone shrub. The lush green leaves provide an attractive backdrop to its showy blooms, which appear in late spring to early summer.
The blooms of the American snowbell are not only visually appealing but also attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, contributing to the biodiversity of their habitat. As autumn approaches, the foliage often takes on a golden hue, adding seasonal interest to the garden.
Beyond its ornamental value, Styrax americanus can play a role in ecological landscaping, helping to create habitats for wildlife and offering a native plant solution for sustainable gardening practices. Whether planted near a water feature or incorporated into a woodland garden, the American snowbell is a versatile and elegant addition to any landscape.
Common Names
Eng: american snowbell, mock orange, snowbell
Nno: sumpstyraks
Nob: sumpstyraks
En: American snowbell, Mock orange, SNOWBELL
Nb: Sumpstyraks
Nn: Sumpstyraks
Synonyms
- Styrax laevis (Walter)
- Styrax americanus f. glaber (Perkins)
- Styrax americanus var. laevis ((Walter) Alph.Wood)
- Styrax americanus f. pulverulentus ((Michx.) Perkins)
- Styrax americanus var. pulverulentus ((Michx.) Rehder)
- Styrax americanus f. genuinus (Perkins)
- Styrax octandrus (L’Hér.)
- Styrax pulverulentus (Michx.)
- Styrax laevigatus (Aiton)
- Styrax angustifolius (Buc’hoz)
- Styrax rigidus (Salisb.)
- Adnaria odorata (Raf.)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Arkansas (native)
- Florida (native)
- Georgia (native)
- Illinois (native)
- Indiana (native)
- Kentucky (native)
- Louisiana (native)
- Mississippi (native)
- Missouri (native)
- North Carolina (native)
- Ohio (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- South Carolina (native)
- Tennessee (native)
- Texas (native)
- Virginia (native)
Additional Images
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Habit
Taken Jun 11, 2021 by Philippe de Spoelberch (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 28, 2014 by EOL − Rolling Meadows Farm (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 13, 2016 by EOL − anewman (cc-by-nc)
Flower
Taken Mar 14, 2012 by EOL − Sharpj99 (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 13, 2016 by EOL − anewman (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 18, 2012 by EOL − SharpJ99 (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Cooper, G.A. (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − USDA NRCS Wetland Science Institute. (public)
Leaf
Taken Jun 11, 2021 by Philippe de Spoelberch (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 20, 2021 by Lee Holley (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 9, 2022 by Hope (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Apr 23, 2012 by EOL − Sharpj99 (cc-by-nc-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5371669)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:247599-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Styrax americanus Lam.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Tree, Shrub
Growth
Ph maximum: 8.5
Ph minimum: 4.5