Styrax japonicus Pink Chimes — 2005 Plant of Merit

This compact, graceful, broad-rounded tree with horizontal branching features drooping clusters of bell-shaped, pale pink flowers on long stalks in May-June. The flowers are followed in summer by small grayish-green berries that mature to brown and persist into autumn. Gray bark on mature trees will fissure to reveal orange inner layers. Eventually maturing to 10-25 feet tall and wide, this easy-to-grow tree provides a special accent to patio areas and small gardens.