An interesting and useful small understory tree for partially shaded areas. Leaves with three leaflets turn yellow in fall. Many bell-shaped greenish-white flowers are produced in spring on long nodding ‘chains’. The fruit ripens in September to curious inflated capsules that can be ‘popped’ in the hand. Forms large suckering colonies. Excellent privacy screen.
Native Plant Database
Header Photo: Mervin Wallace
Bladdernut
Staphylea trifolia
Plant Type: Shrubs
Native Environment: Forest
Season of Interest: Late (July - frost)
Main Color: Green
Fall Color: Yellow
USDA PLANTS Range Map
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Sun Exposure
Shade
Soil
Moisture
Dry, Moderate
Nature Attracting
Butterfly, Pollinators/Beneficial Insects
Wildlife Benefit
Butterfly / Moth Nectar, Cover, Food/Pollinators, Nesting
Animal
Resistance
Size
Height:
10 to
15
feet
Spread:
8 to
12
inches
Size
Height: 10 to
15
feet
Spread: 8 to
12
inches
Size
Height: 10 to
15
feet
Spread: 8 to
12
inches
Typical Landscape Use
Wonderful for screening or hedging in a naturalized area.
Establishment and Care Instructions
Prefers rich woodland soils, tolerant of limestone (alkaline) soil as well. Can be trained as a small tree by cutting any suckers to the ground.
Special Features
Special Usage
Dried Flower
Basic Description
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Where Can I Find This Plant in Nature?
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