Seven-son flower (Heptacodium miconioides 'SMNHMRF' TEMPLE OF BLOOM)
Discover Heptacodium miconioides 'SMNHMRF' TEMPLE OF BLOOM, the compact Seven-son flower. Prized for late-season fragrance, white blooms, and showy pink calyces.
Scroll down to discover growing tips, care requirements, companion plants, and more
Complete Plant Information
Overview
The Heptacodium miconioides ‘SMNHMRF’ TEMPLE OF BLOOM, commonly known as the Seven-son flower, offers a spectacular, late-season display when many other ornamentals are fading. This unique specimen is prized for its creamy-white, fragrant terminal flower clusters that appear in late summer contrasted beautifully by persistent, showy rose-pink calyces that follow the bloom. It is a sophisticated choice for gardeners seeking year-round interest from a relatively low-maintenance shrub or small tree.
Protected under patent PP30763, the ‘SMNHMRF’ TEMPLE OF BLOOM selection offers a more compact habit suitable for smaller landscapes compared to the species, typically reaching heights between 6 to 10 feet. Beyond its blooms and persistent fall color, the distinctive tan bark exfoliates to reveal attractive brown inner bark, adding necessary structure to the winter garden. Growing the Seven-son flower provides excellent late-season nectar for pollinators, linking its ornamental value to ecological benefit.
Since this plant is native to China and its wild populations are considered vulnerable, cultivating Heptacodium miconioides ‘SMNHMRF’ TEMPLE OF BLOOM in cultivation is an important way to showcase this distinct member of the Caprifoliaceae family. Its requirements are straightforward, making it an excellent, somewhat rare accent for those willing to seek it out.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Caprifoliaceae
- Plant Type: Tree
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 5-9
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 6-10 ft
- Spread: 6-10 ft
- Bloom Time: August to September
- Bloom Description: White with pink calyx
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Low
How to Grow
Plant the Heptacodium miconioides ‘SMNHMRF’ TEMPLE OF BLOOM during the spring or fall to allow the root system time to establish before extreme summer heat or winter cold arrives. This Seven-son flower thrives when situated in full sun to ensure the most prolific flowering and best bark development. It performs best in average, medium moisture, well-drained soil, but demonstrates good adaptability by tolerating a wide range of soil conditions.
Watering should be consistent, especially during the first few seasons after planting, maintaining medium moisture levels without allowing the soil to become waterlogged. Once established, this plant exhibits drought tolerance, although supplemental water during prolonged dry spells is beneficial. Maintenance is generally low; fertilization is rarely necessary unless the soil quality is exceptionally poor.
Pruning focuses mainly on shaping or training the structure. While often sold as a multi-stemmed shrub, the Seven-son flower may be trained easily as a single-trunk tree. Remove any crossing or weak branches during the dormant season to enhance the fountain-like shape and showcase the peeling exfoliating bark.
Landscape Uses
The unique ornamental appeal of Heptacodium miconioides ‘SMNHMRF’ TEMPLE OF BLOOM makes it an excellent choice as a specimen plant where its structure and late-season flowers can be admired fully. Its manageable size (up to 10 feet tall and wide) also positions it perfectly within a mixed shrub border, offering structure without overpowering neighboring plants. Consider using the Seven-son flower as a focal accent near patios or walkways to maximize appreciation of its fragrant blooms.
This unique flowering tree integrates well into woodland gardens, provided adequate sunlight penetrates the canopy above. For a layered look, pair the Heptacodium miconioides ‘SMNHMRF’ TEMPLE OF BLOOM with late-blooming perennials that enjoy similar moisture and sun requirements, such as asters or sedums, which provide contrasting flower forms underneath its canopy. Its year-round interest warrants prime placement in contemporary or formal landscape designs.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
- Fragrant
Fruit Qualities
- Showy
Noteworthy Characteristics
Heptacodium miconioides is a large, fountain-shaped, multi-stemmed, deciduous shrub that typically grows 15-20’ at maturity with a 10’ spread, though ‘SMNHMRF’ TEMPLE OF BLOOM is more compact, reaching up to 10 feet. It features terminal panicles of fragrant, creamy-white flowers in late summer, followed by showy, purplish-red drupes crowned by persistent rose-pink calyces throughout the fall. The species is unique as the genus name refers to the typically seven-part flower clusters, and the cultivar offers extended enjoyment of the blooms and calyces.
Tolerances
- Tolerates wide range of soils
Potential Problems
This plant generally suffers from no serious insect or disease problems, contributing significantly to its low-maintenance rating. Gardeners should remain vigilant for signs of stress, though none are commonly reported for the Heptacodium miconioides ‘SMNHMRF’ TEMPLE OF BLOOM. Ensure proper siting regarding drainage, as soggy conditions will be detrimental, even though it tolerates many soil types.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Seven-son flower suitable for?
The Heptacodium miconioides ‘SMNHMRF’ TEMPLE OF BLOOM is suitable for USDA Hardiness Zones 5 through 9. Always confirm local conditions before planting.
How large does Seven-son flower grow?
This specific cultivar generally matures to a height between 6 and 10 feet, with a comparable spread of 6 to 10 feet, making it an excellent small specimen tree.
What sun exposure does Seven-son flower need?
Heptacodium miconioides ‘SMNHMRF’ TEMPLE OF BLOOM requires full sun to reliably produce its abundant summer blooms and develop attractive bark.
When does Seven-son flower bloom?
The Seven-son flower blooms from August into September, displaying clusters of white flowers that are followed by very showy pink calyces that persist into late fall.
Conclusion
The Heptacodium miconioides ‘SMNHMRF’ TEMPLE OF BLOOM remains a standout choice due to its reliable fragrance, spectacular late-season floral display defined by white flowers and pink calyces, and attractive exfoliating bark. For gardeners in zones 5-9 seeking a unique, low-maintenance flowering tree that draws attention in late summer, the Seven-son flower provides exceptional value. Plan your planting for spring or fall to give this distinctive specimen the best start.
Wildlife Benefits
The late season flowering of the Seven-son flower is crucial for supporting local ecosystems. As many native plants finish blooming, the fragrant flowers of Heptacodium miconioides ‘SMNHMRF’ TEMPLE OF BLOOM provide a vital source of nectar for late-season butterflies and various other insect pollinators. This reliable nectar source helps sustain insect populations critical for summer’s end and early autumn preparedness.
For an added layer of wildlife attraction, consider the persistent, showy fruit display. Although the actual drupes are small, they are crowned by the vibrant rose-pink calyces, creating a visual treat that can attract birds feeding later in the season. Incorporating this reliable bloomer enhances the garden’s capacity to support biodiversity throughout the growing season.
