Silverbell, Carolina

The Carolina Silverbell typically reaches heights between 30 and 40 feet with spreads growing 20-35’. The moderately dense crown forms in an upright, rounded to vase shape. The top of the tree comes to a narrow point while the lower branches tend to spread out in a more horizontal way. For best growth, the tree should be planted in well-drained, moist, acidic soil with full to partial sun. This tree is excellent for a small shade tree or just as a beautiful flowering tree.

The alternate, simple, ovate or elliptical shaped LEAVES have slightly serrate edges and come to a point at the apex. The leaves are usually 2-5” long and are covered in tiny hairs on the underside. Early in the fall, the dark green turns to yellow-green and they tend to drop very early.

In early May, showy, white FLOWERS bloom before or with the emergence of the leaves. Each bell-shaped flower is 1/2-3/4” long, having 4 lobes, and they tend to grow in clusters of 2-5 in a downward direction.

The FRUIT of the Carolina Silverbell comes in the form of a four-winged, oblong shaped, dry dupe. The fruit, which is 1-2” long, changes from green to tan in September and persists throughout the winter. Each fruit contains 2-3 SEEDS.

The TRUNK normally grows as a multi-trunk but it can be trained to grow with a central leader. The smooth, attractive BARK is a steel gray color with creamy colored stripping.

Wood from this tree is used in a variety of ways, including veneer, cabinets, and carving projects. Bees use the flowers in their honey making and squirrels enjoy eating the seeds.