Styrax obassia is a deciduous tree native to Japan, known for its graceful appearance and fragrant flowers. Here's a detailed description:

Size and Growth Habit: Styrax obassia typically grows to a height of 6 to 10 meters (20 to 33 feet) and spreads out to form a rounded crown. It has a moderate growth rate.

Leaves: The leaves are ovate to elliptic in shape, about 5 to 10 centimeters (2 to 4 inches) long, with finely serrated margins. They are bright green in color and turn yellow in the fall before dropping.

Flowers: The most striking feature of Styrax obassia is its flowers, which appear in late spring to early summer. The flowers are pendulous, bell-shaped, and white, measuring about 1 to 2 centimeters (0.4 to 0.8 inches) in diameter. They hang in clusters along the branches and emit a sweet, delicate fragrance.

Fruit: After flowering, small round fruits, about 1 centimeter (0.4 inches) in diameter, develop. These fruits are dry capsules that contain small seeds.

Bark: The bark of Styrax obassia is smooth and grayish-brown when young, becoming rougher and darker with age.

Cultural Requirements: This tree prefers moist, well-drained soil and thrives in full sun to partial shade. It is relatively low-maintenance once established and has good tolerance to urban pollution.

Landscape Use: Styrax obassia is often grown as an ornamental tree in gardens, parks, and landscapes for its attractive foliage, elegant form, and fragrant flowers. It serves well as a focal point or specimen tree.

Growing Instructions

The seeds have a period of dormancy. They can be planted in the fall for spring germination or they can be cold stratified to simulate winter conditions and to break their dormancy.

1. Scarify the seeds by nicking or sanding the seed coat.
2. Soak the seed in water for several hours.
3. Place the seeds in a plastic bag and seal it. Store the bag in a refrigerator for two months.
4. Fill a pot with potting soil.
5. Sow the seeds on the soil and cover them with a thin layer of soil.
6. Water the container and leave it to drain.
7. Put the pot in a warm, sunny area.
8. Water the pot regularly so that the soil is moist but not wet.
9. The seedlings can be transplanted when they are a few inches tall.