Description:

An unusual small upright tree with dark green elliptical leaves that emerge at the same time as the white bell flowers along the branches; ideal for the woodland garden; shelter from drying winds; virtually pest free

Ornamental Features

Mu Gua Hong is bathed in stunning fragrant nodding white bell-shaped flowers along the branches in late spring, which emerge from distinctive creamy white flower buds. It has green deciduous foliage. The textured oval leaves do not develop any appreciable fall color.

Landscape Attributes

Mu Gua Hong is a dense deciduous tree with an upright spreading habit of growth. Its average texture blends into the landscape, but can be balanced by one or two finer or coarser trees or shrubs for an effective composition.

This tree will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, and should only be pruned after flowering to avoid removing any of the current season's flowers. It is a good choice for attracting birds to your yard. It has no significant negative characteristics.

Mu Gua Hong is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Shade
• Vertical Accent

Planting & Growing

Mu Gua Hong will grow to be about 40 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 30 feet. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 3 feet from the ground, and should not be planted underneath power lines. It grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live to a ripe old age of 100 years or more; think of this as a heritage tree for future generations!

This tree does best in full sun to partial shade. It does best in average to evenly moist conditions, but will not tolerate standing water. It may require supplemental watering during periods of drought or extended heat. It is not particular as to soil type, but has a definite preference for acidic soils. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution, and will benefit from being planted in a relatively sheltered location. This species is not originally from North America.