species 72 observations

Pterostyrax hispidus

Field notes

Pterostyrax hispidus, the epaulette tree or fragrant epaulette tree, is a species of flowering plant in the family Styracaceae, native to China and Japan. Growing to 15 m (49 ft) tall by 12 m (39 ft) broad, it is a substantial, spreading, deciduous shrub with oval leaves up to 20 cm (8 in) long, and clusters of pure white, fragrant, pendent flowers in summer.

The Latin specific epithet hispidus (often given incorrectly as hispida or hispidum) refers to the small ribbed fruits which are covered in bristles. The common name "epaulette tree" refers to the fringed individual flowers.

In cultivation the plant has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

Supports All

1 native animals
supported in the US

Caterpillars Moths and butterflies raised on it Fall Armyworm Moth 1

Key traits

Layer: Trees
Light: Full sun Part shade
Moisture: Well drained Moist
Soil: Sand Loam Clay Organic
Soil pH: Acid Neutral
Drought tolerant: Yes
Resists: Compaction Heat
Habit: Multi stemmed Open Rounded
Plant type: Shrub Tree

From NC State Extension.