Staphylea trifolia (American Bladdernut)


Michael's Opinion

An unusual plant with interesting fruit and attractive light green leaves. It is rather unkempt and hence it is more a curiosity in the landscape than a solid plant.

Botanical Information

FamilyStaphyleaceae
GenusStaphylea
Speciestrifolia
CategoryWoody
TypeTree (deciduous)
OriginThe United States of America, Quebec and Ontario in Canada.
Pronunciation

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone3 - 8
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone1a - 8a
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH4 - H7
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-40 - (-7)
Temperature (°F)-40 - 20
Height3 - 5 m
Spread3 - 6 m
GrowthFast
Flowering PeriodMay

Description and Growing Information

ID CharacteristicA trifoliate leaf, and a large bladder like fruit.
ShapeTaller than broad, clump forming.
LandscapeLimited use except in naturalization, more of a curiosity than anything else.
PropagationThe seed must immediately, upon harvest, be placed in moist peat or sown direct and given a three month warm period (about 15 °C). It must then be given a cool period for three months at 5°C. Additionally it roots easily from softwood and hardwood cuttings and since mature plants may sucker, one can divide.
CultivationMoist, well-drained soils.
PestsNo serious insect or disease problems.
Notable SpecimensJoany’s Woods, West Williams, Middlesex County, Ontario, Canada. The A. M. Cuddy Gardens, Strahroy, Ontario, Canada. The Gardens of Fanshawe College, London, Ontario, Canada.
HabitatMoist but well drained soils.
Bark/Stem DescriptionLight grey with irregular whitish grey markings.
Flower/Leaf Bud DescriptionSomewhat glaborous buds that are ovoid in shape.
Leaf DescriptionOpposite in arrangement, compound pinnate with three leaflets which are obovate and light green in colour.
Fruit DescriptionEvident in September, capsulate, three lobed and about 6-9 cm in length.
Colour DescriptionLeaves light green, turning light yellow in autumn.
Texture DescriptionMedium.

Photographs