Tree
Two-wing Silverbell
Halesia diptera
Varieties We Carry
StandardHalesia dipteraLarge FlowerHalesia diptera
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$9.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 11.
LightPart Sun, Part Shade
WaterModerate to High
Mature size20-35 feet × 15-25 feet
About Two-wing Silverbell
Two-winged Silverbell (Halesia diptera) is a small to medium deciduous native tree of the southeastern United States, producing drooping clusters of bell-shaped white flowers in mid-spring before or with the emerging leaves. The common name refers to the distinctive two-winged, woody fruits that persist on the tree into fall. A graceful understory tree of moist woodland edges, it provides refined ornamental appeal and is an excellent native specimen for naturalized gardens. Starting at $9.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring
- Flower Color
- White
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Acidic, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
J
F
M
A
M
JNow
J
A
S
O
N
D
This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. New foliage emerges. Good planting window.
Active growing season.
Foliage may begin to change or drop. Ideal planting window.
Dormant — drops foliage. Can be planted in mild winter periods.
Care essentials
Light
Grows in part sun to part shade; Halesia diptera is a native understory tree best sited beneath larger deciduous canopy trees in NE Florida to protect it from intense afternoon sun and summer heat. This species is formally rated to zone 8B by UF/IFAS — zone 9b pushes its heat tolerance; a sheltered, cool microclimate is essential.
Water
Requires consistent moisture — not drought-tolerant; plant in a moist, organically rich site in NE Florida and mulch heavily under the full canopy. Supplemental irrigation during Florida's dry season (Oct–May) is necessary for survival. Not suitable for exposed, dry, or sandy upland sites.
Soil & Fertilizer
Prefers moist, acidic (pH 5.0–6.5), well-drained loam to sandy loam with organic matter; amend NE Florida's sandy soils generously with compost. Apply a 3–4 inch layer of mulch and maintain it at all times. Fertilize lightly in spring with an acidic slow-release fertilizer; do not plant in heavy clay or dry, infertile sand.
Similar needs
American Hornbeam
Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, high water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
From $250.00Same conditions
American Snowbell
Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, high water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
From $59.95Same conditions
Dahoon Holly
Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, high water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
From $6.95Same conditions
Hazel Alder
Shares 5 of the same needs: similar light, high water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
From $24.95Same conditions
Loblolly Bay
Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, high water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
From $19.95Same conditions
Parsley Hawthorn
Shares 5 of the same needs: similar light, high water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
From $19.95Same conditions
You may also like
Common questions
Is Two-wing Silverbell a good plant for St. Augustine?
Two-wing Silverbell is a tree for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 20-35 feet × 15-25 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.