Seven-Son Flower

The Seven-Son flower is a member of the Caprifoliaceae and can be a large multi-stem shrub or a small tree, depending on how it is pruned. This tree can grow 10 to 20 feet tall and approximately half as wide as a fountain-like shrub or single-trunk tree. It offers year-round interest in the landscape with several unique features. Buds appear in early summer; however, they don’t open till September with beautiful white blooms that are fragrant and nectar-rich, which attract a variety of pollinators. After the flowers fade, the sepals turn cherry red to rose-purple seed pods that persist through the fall and winter. The beautiful exfoliating bark is revealed after the leaves fall in autumn, and winter interest is offered through the dreary season. Seven-son flower is a moderately fast grower that thrives in various soils, from poor to good, and tolerates some shade. It does prefer to stay slightly damp; however, it will tolerate dry conditions. Use this as a focal point in your landscape or as a small shade tree in your yard.

Have questions? Contact our office where our Horticulture Extension Agent will assist you with questions.

Phone: (316) 321-9660

Email: callae@ksu.edu