Staphylea pinnata
common bladdernut
This shrub is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.
- Position: full sun or partial shade
- Soil: moist, well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: average
- Flowering period: May to June
- Hardiness: fully hardy
A large branching shrub or deciduous tree with divided (pinnate) dark green leaves composed of pointed, oval leaflets. Long, hanging clusters of fragrant, bell-shaped, white flowers tinged with pink, appear in late spring and early summer followed by fruit that are housed in inflated, bladder-like sheaths. - Garden care: Mulch during the early spring to help retain moisture as the plant has a low drought tolerance. Keep well-watered during the summer. Staphylea pinnata prefers a well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged, and requires minimal pruning beyond removing any dead or damaged wood.