Carolina Silverbell

Overview

The Carolina Silverbell can grow to be a large shrub or small tree at 30 to 40 feet in height. It grows at a moderate rate and can live for about 100 years. The dark-yellow green leaves of the Carolina Silverbell are serrated and can grow 3 to 5 inches. The flowers bloom late April to May and are white with a slight pink tint. They have a bell shape and grow 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch long. The Carolina Silverbell has a brown/green fruit that can be seen from Fall throughout Winter. As the tree ages, the bark turns from a gray striped look to scaly and ridged.

Cultivation

The Carolina Silverbell thrives in full sun to partial shade within moist, acidic, rich, well-drained soil. The tree is resistant to pests, however, it is sensitive to heat, drought, compacted soils, and high winds.

Biodiversity Sustained

The Carolina Silverbell provides food and dens for squirrels thanks to its fruit and branches. Its flowers also attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, and the nectar provides food for hummingbirds.

On Xavier's Campus, over the Next 20 Years, this Tree will:

Stormwater Runoff Intercepted: 2,816 gallons

CO2 Reduction: 868 lbs

Electricity Savings: 520 kilowatt/hours

Environmental Benefits (in US dollars) Over the Next Decade: $493