Dave Dermyer – Sticks & Stones

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Finding a Rare Gem – Heptacodium

Gardening enthusiasts are always on the lookout for unique and visually striking additions to their landscapes. And many homeowners love to be the ‘Joneses’ rather than keep up with them. An inimitable tree that stands out for its beauty and distinctive characteristics is Heptacodium.

Heptacodium miconioides (also known by the original species name, jasminoides and commonly known as Seven Son Flower) is native to China. First introduced to the West by the plant explorer E. H. Wilson in 1907, it would be mostly forgotten until the 1980s when additional seeds and cuttings were brought to the Arnold Arboretum. Most modern Heptacodium in North America can be traced to this shipment. Considered to be rare in the wild, this tree has been gaining popularity in gardens worldwide due to its elegant appearance and unique blooming habits.

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The Heptacodium is a deciduous shrub or small tree that typically grows relatively quickly up to 15-20 feet in height, though it can sometimes reach 25 feet under optimal conditions. Its most notable feature is its exfoliating bark, which peels away in thin, papery layers to reveal shades of tan, gray, and brown, adding interest to the winter landscape. In late summer to early fall, clusters of fragrant, creamy white flowers bloom atop the branches, attracting bees and butterflies. These blooms give way to small, purple fruit that persists into late fall. Despite attracting pollinators, it is deer-resistant.

In addition to its ornamental value, Heptacodium holds cultural significance in its native China, where it is often planted near temples and sacred sites. The number seven is considered auspicious in Chinese culture, hence the name "Seven Son Flower."

Heptacodium is adaptable to a variety of soil types but prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is relatively low-maintenance once established and has good drought tolerance. And while it takes to the Midwest environment well (zones 5-9), it is a non-invasive species.

Despite its relative obscurity, but due to its manageable size and attractive features, Heptacodium is well-suited for use as a specimen tree, focal point, or backdrop in gardens and landscapes. It also makes a lovely addition to mixed borders, where its late-season blooms can complement other flowering plants.

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The Seven Son Flower is an excellent special-order option from Christensen’s. While it is gaining in popularity, we do not stock this variety (yet). However, we are happy to bring in what you need, just ask!

European Inspiration

My inspiration for this week’s Sticks & Stones is a trip that my family took last year. We traveled over to the Netherlands and France to cheer on my daughter’s team. But being a plantsman, I really noticed how trees are done along the roadways in Europe. I wondered if there is a way that we could do something similar here. I was impressed by the way the trees were well-manicured to keep the line of vision clear for drivers.

For instance, Malus Sargentii is a prime example of a smaller stature tree. They mature at 6’ to 8’ tall and between 9’ to 15’ wide, which makes them easy to keep away from the power lines, unlike the pears in my neighborhood. The Sargent crab does have a white flower in the spring, as well, and does bear fruit about ¼" in size. It is very tolerant to clay soil, air pollution, and even the fruit can attract birds and, of course, pollinators in the spring with their flowers. It would be a perfect compact replacement.

However, there are a couple of reasons why this could not really be done here. (1.) They are manicured in such a beautiful, rectangular fashion, but ours are mostly just trimmed to avoid power lines. The labor (and cost of labor) involved in manicuring for a look is perceived differently than for function. (2.) We have our power lines above ground, but they do not. These obstacles made me think, ‘What about using smaller-sized trees along the edges of the roads?’ Instead of having the tops sheared flat or even holes through one side, why not try a Malus?

Since we are looking at the smaller crab apples, another overlooked variety is the Malus Sargent Tina. It fits into the dwarf category at about 4’-5’ tall and wide when mature. When the buds start to form in the spring, they start out with a pink color and then go to a brilliant white that is fragrant. While it is not as “fragrant” as a Cleveland pear, it differs in being considered a pleasant scent as opposed to the generally distasteful aroma of the pear. As with the Sargentii’s, Sargent Tina also attracts pollinators in the spring and has a ¼" fruit in the fall that attracts and sustains birds through winter.

Drawing to the end I will give the French a thumbs up for keeping tree limbs away from the streets since all those Carpinus in the picture are all in a trimmed-up, rectangular shape and have been that way for decades. They said it was to be able to look down the street and see the Arc de Triomphe where they have had large parades after wars. I enjoyed my time in Europe and want to leave you with one last thought. If you are ever able to, go to Paris, you must see the Eiffel Tower at night as the lights twinkle like stars all over it.