August Plant of the Month

Heptacodium miconioides, commonly called the Seven Son Flower is part of Caprifoliaceae family

From the common name, one might suspect that this plant is a perennial or annual; a plant which is aglow with flowers all summer! Quite the contrary, this deciduous plant has the stature of a large shrub or small tree.


The tiered branches of this fast-growing species are covered with white blossoms for over a month, starting in late summer. The flowers fade to reveal fuchsia calyxes that persist well into autumn.

The shape of the plant is truly determined by the gardener. It can be pruned to a single trunk so it appears to be a small tree or be left as a large shrub.

During July, the flower buds appear, but they merely serve to tantalize the gardener since they do not finally open until August! Once they do they give off a sweet fragrance of jasmine .

This is a great shrub for late summer, fall and winter interest. Another plus for this shrub is its salt tolerance, so it could be used near the seashore. It also attracts butterflies.


Hardiness: USDA zones: 5-8.
Mature size: Height: 20 feet. Width: 8-10 feet.
Flowering period: Late summer to late autumn.
Flowering attributes: Clusters of fragrant, creamy white flowers born in clusters of seven, followed by clusters of showy purple fruit with bright purple-red calyxes.
Leaf attributes: Four-inch long, ovate, deciduous, green leaves that turn purple-bronze in autumn.
Light: Full sun is best
Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil.
Feeding: Side dress with compost and a complete organic fertilizer in the spring.
Water: Water regularly; do not overwater
Pruning Methods: In late winter or early spring prune out crossed branches or branches too tall, to maintain good shape
Landscape Use: in small groups, for late summer flowers, for colored sepals in fall & for attractive bark. Also easily transplanted and grown.
Liabilities: 1)introduced in 1980 and therefore a bit hard to find 2)stem dieback possibly due to canker 3)many plants especially those in shade do not seem to develop retained sepals 4)buck deer like to rub their antlers on the trunks

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Other postings that may be of interest:
8 Plants that Flower in the Winter
Great Fall Plants for your Containers and Planters
Plant some Fall Bulbs for added color in your Garden