Silver-Bell Tree, Carolina silverbell, Mountain silverbell

Halesia carolina

Physical Characteristics

Halesia carolina is a deciduous Tree growing to 8 m (26ft) by 10 m (32ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower in May, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

South-eastern N. America - Virginia to Florida, west to Oklahoma.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Secondary; Sunny Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: The ripe fruit is chewed for its acidity[183]. Unripe fruits are sometimes pickled[2, 183].The fruit is about 4cm in diameter[200].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known