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Description
Tilesia Baccata, commonly known as the Mountain Silverbell or Silverbell, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the family Styracaceae. It is native to the eastern United States, specifically from Pennsylvania to Georgia and west to Illinois. It can grow up to 60 feet tall and 30 feet wide. The tree has a straight trunk and a pyramidal crown. It blooms in late spring with small, bell-shaped flowers that are white or pale pink and fragrant. The fruit of the tree is a dry, brown capsule that contains small seeds.
Taxonomic Information
Below is the taxonomic information of Tilesia Baccata:
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Styracaceae |
| Genus | Tilesia |
Appearance
The Tilesia Baccata has a smooth, light gray bark that becomes fissured with age. The leaves of the tree are oval-shaped and have a pointed tip. They are dark green and have a glossy surface. The leaves turn yellow in the fall. The tree’s flowers are small, bell-shaped, and grow in clusters. They are white or pale pink and have a pleasant fragrance. The fruit of the tree is a dry, brown capsule that contains small seeds. The tree’s pyramidal crown makes it an attractive ornamental tree.
Care Guide
The following are some tips for taking care of Tilesia Baccata:
- Water: The tree needs regular watering, especially during the first few years of growth. It prefers moist soil but can tolerate brief periods of drought.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing the tree during the fall, as this can stimulate new growth that may not have time to harden off before winter.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil pH levels.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tilesia Baccata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to leaf spot and powdery mildew. Leaf spot can be treated with fungicides, and powdery mildew can be prevented by providing good air circulation around the tree.
Habitat
Tilesia Baccata is native to the eastern United States, specifically from Pennsylvania to Georgia and west to Illinois. It grows in moist, well-draining soil in wooded areas and along streams and rivers. The tree prefers full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Below are some frequently asked questions about Tilesia Baccata:
- Q: How tall can Tilesia Baccata grow?
- A: Tilesia Baccata can grow up to 60 feet tall.
- Q: When does Tilesia Baccata bloom?
- A: Tilesia Baccata blooms in late spring.
- Q: Is Tilesia Baccata hardy?
- A: Yes, Tilesia Baccata is hardy in zones 5-8.
- Q: What is the fruit of Tilesia Baccata?
- A: The fruit of Tilesia Baccata is a dry, brown capsule that contains small seeds.
Related Plants
Below are some plants related to Tilesia Baccata:
- Styrax Japonicus
- Styrax Obassia
- Styrax Pseudochina
- Styrax Americana
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Dirr’s Trees and Shrubs for Warm Climates: An Illustrated Encyclopedia. Timber Press.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Tilesia baccata. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282688
- University of Florida. (n.d.). Tilesia baccata. Retrieved from http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/ST/ST02800.pdf
