Stryax officinalis   Storax Styracaceae

  Styrax officinalis    

  Found in Europe, East Asia and North America (throughout northern hemisphere). Deciduous tree or shrub, up to 20' tall. Delicate 4-petaled umbrella-like flowers. Flowers not terminal, but are on older growth. Ovate, entire dark green leaves, gray-white underneath, up to 3" long. Striking fall color. Tends to be horizontal, open.

Great small understory tree. Will also take full sun, but likes part shade best. Needs perfect drainage. Styrax vs. Malus: Malus has spurs.

Photo taken at Filoli Estate.