Silverbell can be seen in several locations at the Arboretum just below the Visitors Center near Scarborough Creek, along the lower Heath Cove Trail, and near the Program Shelter. It is a tree that is most typical of the southeastern mountains, but forms can be found throughout the southeastern and central U.S. Silverbell is in bloom this week and is readily recognized by its showy white, bell-shaped flowers hanging down from the branches. In late summer and fall, the green to brown, papery, 4-winged fruit has a long spike-like projection at its bottom.

A research collection near the Program Shelter was established in 1997 to evaluate ornamental characteristics, hardiness, and growth rate of trees obtained from 4 geographical areas in Tennessee, North Carolina, Arkansas, and West Virginia. Silverbells wood is valued for making furniture and wood carvings. Several cultivars have been developed for landscaping.

Return to Tree List