SafePlants

Pterostyrax hispidus: The Fragrant Epaulette Tree

The Pterostyrax hispidus, commonly known as the Epaulette Tree or Fragrant Epaulette Tree, is a captivating deciduous tree or large shrub prized for its elegant form and fragrant flowers.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant may grow as a shrub or small tree, with the potential for low-hanging branches that may be accessible to pets.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Pterostyrax hispidus Siebold & Zucc.
• Common Names: Epaulette Tree, Fragrant Epaulette Tree
• Family: Styracaceae (Storax family)
• Genus: Pterostyrax (contains about 5 species)
• Synonyms:
  • Pterostyrax cavaleriei Guillaumin (for Pterostyrax psilophyllus)
  • Styrax cavaleriei H.Lv. (for Pterostyrax psilophyllus)

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to eastern Asia, specifically China and Japan.
• Introduced to the United Kingdom in 1875.
• Prefers neutral to slightly acidic, well-drained soil.
• Can tolerate summer heat, drought, and smog.

Morphology and Growth Habits

• Deciduous large shrub or small to medium-sized tree.
• Typically reaches 20 to 30 feet in height, sometimes up to 45 feet, with an equal spread. Can reach 50 ft (15m) as a tree.
• Rounded, spreading crown.
• Leaves are alternate, elliptic, light green, 3-8 inches long and 4 inches wide, with a silvery underside and bristle-toothed edges.
• Bark is gray and peeling.
• Showy, fragrant white flowers appear in long, pendent panicles (up to 25 cm long) in early summer.

Ecological Role

• Observed to attract bees.
• Pterostyrax hispida has been observed escaping from cultivation in some regions.

Quirky Facts

• The genus name Pterostyrax refers to its fruits, with "pteron" meaning "wing".
• The common name "Epaulette Tree" comes from the flower's resemblance to military epaulettes.

Further Information

• Germplasm Resources Information Network (GRIN), U.S. Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research
• Royal Horticultural Society (RHS)