Oriental styrax, Storax tree
styrax officinalis
Also known as: ["Storax tree","Liquidambar orientalis"]
Overview
A deciduous tree known for its fragrant white flowers and aromatic resin used historically in medicine and perfumery.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Styracaceae |
| Genus: | Styrax |
| Botanical Name: | Styrax officinalis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot with morning sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter; cactus mix or loam-based potting soil works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid intense midday sun; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and weather.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use well-draining soil; avoid heavy clay; amend with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, temperate climates.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from extreme heat or cold.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize in spring before new growth; avoid over-fertilizing; water before applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also use peat moss.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of dead or crossing branches; shape as desired.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead wood, and encourage flowering; best done after flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or diseased wood; shape plant as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, or browning edges in extreme heat or cold; slow growth in unfavorable conditions.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or drop; growth may slow or stop; susceptible to frost damage in harsh winters.
Solution: Protect from frost with mulch or cover; move potted plants indoors in freezing temperatures; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; use appropriate fertilizer; apply at correct dilution; water after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if needed; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms if they ingest parts of Styrax officinalis. The toxicity is generally low, but caution is advised.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Styrax officinalis seeds and bark can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The effects are typically not severe but should be monitored.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicStyrax officinalis contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other mild symptoms upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally limited to the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Styrax officinalis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the uses of Styrax officinalis?
A: It is valued for its fragrant flowers and resin, historically used in medicine and perfumery.
Q: How difficult is it to care for Styrax officinalis?
A: It requires moderate care, suitable for enthusiasts with some gardening experience.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Styracaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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