Styrax japonica

Styrax japonica - Japanese Snowbell

General:
The japanese snowbell is native to the mountain forests of Japan, South Korea and central China. It grows as a small tree or shrub with a height of 3 to 8 meters. The leaves are round, elliptical, dark green and alternate on the thin shoots. From June to July the japanese snowbell develops beautiful white bell-shaped flowers that are reminiscent of the snowdrop.

Care as a bonsai:
Due to its unique flowers and the relatively small leaves, the japanese snowbell is very suitable for bonsai design. Very beautiful and old specimens can always be admired at bonsai exhibitions in Japan. The plant is vigorous and the young shoots are easy to shape with wire. Regular pruning also results in good fine branching. The japanese snowbell has no special requirements, but benefits from a bright location with regular irrigation and fertilization. In winter, the tree should be frost-free.