Epaulette Tree

From the far east, Pterostyrax hispida is a large, spreading, bushy shrub or often multi-stemmed tree with a broad, open crown and peeling, aromatic, grey bark. The leaves are ovate and tapered, 8”/20cm long, and a fresh, bright green. Long, dangling, clusters of fragrant, fluffy, white flowers are borne in June and July, and are followed by small, ribbed, light-brown fruits covered with bristly hairs. The epaulette tree, named for the tasselled flowers, which appear only after the plant is some years old, holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Site: Tolerates exposure
Soil: Deep, fertile, well-drained, acid to neutral soil
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Season of interest: Summer in particular
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Height: 39’ (12m) Spread: 33’’ (10m) in 20 years