Halesia carolina Snowdrop tree, Silver bell

Styracaceae

Halesia carolina Snowdrop tree, Silver bell

Large multi-stemmed shrub that can grow to become a small tree. Sometimes cultivated as a standard tree. Old trunks can sometimes flake off. The branches grow outwards in the width while older branches bend. Can grow to be as wide as it is tall. The green leaves turn bright yellow in the autumn. The pendulous, bell-shaped flowers resemble snowdrops. They are approx. 1.5 cm in diameter and occur in axillary bundles. They appear in particularly large numbers in the spring at the same time as the new leaves. The oval fruit has 2 to 4 longitudinal wings and hangs on thin stalks. The fruit turns brown after ripening and remains hanging on the tree for a long time. The roots go down deep and are very hard. Halesia much prefers a humus-rich, lightly humid soil. It also grows well in acid soils. Halesia carolina can grow from large shrub to a tree of medium height.
Our trees can only be planted when they don't have any leaves. Due to the this we will start delivering again from November 2025.
Availability
Specifications
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Height
6 - 8 (10) m
Width
4-6m
Crown
broad vase-shaped, half-open crown
Bark and branches
grey twigs, bast turns colour to greyish-black
Leaf
oval to ovoid, fresh green, 6 - 10 cm
Autumn colour
yellow
Flowers
white, bell-shaped, in bundles, April/May
Fruits
winged drupe, approx. 3 cm long
Spines/thorns
None
Toxicity
usually not toxic to people, (large) pets and livestock
Soil type
nutritious soil
Paving
tolerates no paving
Winter hardiness zone
6a (-23,3 to -20,6 °C)
Wind resistance
good
Other resistances
resistant to frost (WH 1 - 6), can withstand wind
Fauna tree
valuable for bees (honey plant)
Application
tree containers, roof gardens, small gardens, patio gardens
Shape
clearstem tree, multi-stem treem
Origin
North America
Synonyms
Halesia tetraptera
Clear stem tree Multi-stem tree acid soil loamy soil peaty soil sandy soil tolerates no paving resistant to frost (WH 1 - 6) can withstand wind broad vase-shaped 3rd size, smaller than 6 metres half-open crown green April average growing Conspicuous bloom all species Attractive autumn colour valuable for bees (honey plant) non-toxic (usually) Ornamental fruit
Frequently asked questions
Halesia carolina

Halesia carolina can eventually reach a height of 6 - 8 (10) m, depending on the site and climate conditions.

Halesia carolina is average growing and can eventually reach a height of 6 - 8 (10) m, depending on the site and climate conditions.

The leaves of Halesia carolina turn yellow in autumn.

The right time to plant Halesia carolina is during the dormancy period. In Western Europe, Halesia carolina with root balls can generally be planted from mid-November to late April, although this depends strongly on the climatic conditions and the species of tree.

Halesia carolina blooms in april.
General

Yes, we deliver to the UK. Delivery costs depend on the region and the total order value. Below, you’ll find all the details.

Delivery charges for private customers are calculated based on your region and are visible during the checkout process. We also offer discounts based on the total value of your order:

  • Orders over £1,000: Receive a 50% discount on delivery costs.
  • Orders over £2,000: Delivery is completely free.

Yes, for trees with a size of 50-60 cm girth or larger, additional delivery charges apply due to the need for specialised transport. These costs will be calculated separately and shared with you after your order is placed. We will contact you to discuss the transport options and costs.

Once you add items to your basket and proceed to the checkout, the system will calculate the delivery charges for your region. If your order qualifies for any discounts, they will automatically be applied.

For any questions or specific delivery requests, feel free to contact our customer service team. We’re happy to help arrange the best delivery solution for your order.