Storax Tree

Styrax officinalis

Basic Information

Family: Styracaceae

Genus: styrax

Plant ID (slug): styrax-officinalis

Numeric ID: 25764

USDA Hardiness: 8-11

Ratings

Physical Characteristics

Styrax officinalis is a deciduous Shrub growing to 5 m (16ft) by 2 m (6ft) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is frost tender. It is in flower in June, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

Europe - E. Mediterranean.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Secondary; Sunny Edge; South Wall. By. West Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Condiment A highly perfumed balsamic gum is obtained from the branches and stems[183]. It is occasionally used as a condiment[183]. This gum is almost certainly the resin described below[K].

Medicinal Uses

Antiseptic Expectorant A resin obtained from the stems of the plant is antiseptic and expectorant[11, 103, 240].