Silver-Bell Tree (Halesia carolina)

Family: Styracaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Halesia carolina is a deciduous Tree growing to 8 m (26ft) by 10 m (32ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower in May, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall

Flavor & Culinary Uses

The ripe fruit is chewed for its acidity. Unripe fruits are sometimes pickled.The fruit is about 4cm in diameter. — The ripe fruit is chewed for its acidity.; Unripe fruits are sometimes pickled.The fruit is about 4cm in diameter.

Habitat & North American Range

Moist woods along the sides of streams in the mountains. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)