Styrax officinalis - Snowdrop Bush

Description

This deciduous shrub grows slowly to 12' high by 6' wide. It is very ornamental in flower, with pendant white 1" flowers similar to snowdrops in appearance in clusters between April and May. A native to dry rocky places below 3000' in the inner coast ranges and Sierra foothills, it tolerates heat and drought. Plant it in full sun or light shade, and give it occasional water until established. Its gray bark and graceful form make it attractive even without its leaves.