Tetradium daniellii (Bee-bee Tree)

Tetradium daniellii (Bee-bee Tree) is a deciduous tree that belongs to the plant family Rutaceae and is native to East Asia, particularly China and Korea. 

Appearance: Bee-bee Tree is a medium-sized tree that typically grows to a height of 30-50 feet (9-15 meters) tall, although it can sometimes reach up to 80 feet (24 meters) under optimal conditions. It has a rounded to spreading crown with branches that ascend upwards. The bark is gray-brown and becomes deeply furrowed with age. The leaves are pinnately compound, consisting of 7-15 leaflets arranged opposite each other along the central stem. The leaflets are elliptical to lanceolate in shape, with serrated margins, and turn yellow in the fall, providing attractive autumn color.

Flowers: Bee-bee Tree produces clusters of small, creamy-white flowers in mid to late summer. The flowers are highly attractive to bees, which is how the tree acquired its common name. The blooms are also pleasantly fragrant and have a citrus-like scent, making them appealing to humans as well.

Fruit: Following pollination, Bee-bee Tree develops small, round, greenish-yellow fruits that mature to red or reddish-purple in late summer to early fall. The fruits are borne in clusters and persist on the tree well into winter, providing ornamental interest and food for birds and other wildlife.

Habitat: This tree prefers moist, well-drained soils and is commonly found growing in mixed forests, woodlands, and along stream banks. It tolerates a wide range of soil types and pH levels but performs best in fertile, slightly acidic to neutral soils. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and is relatively drought-tolerant once established.

Cultural Use: Bee-bee Tree is valued as an ornamental tree in gardens and landscapes for its attractive foliage, showy flowers, and colorful fruits. It is often planted as a specimen tree, shade tree, or in small groups. The tree's compact size and relatively slow growth rate make it suitable for urban and suburban settings.

Maintenance: This tree is generally low-maintenance once established. It requires regular watering during periods of drought, especially when young or newly planted. Pruning can be done in late winter to early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and maintain a tidy shape.

Propagation: Bee-bee Tree can be propagated from seeds, which should be collected from ripe fruits and sown in a well-draining potting mix. Stratifying the seeds for several weeks before planting can help improve germination rates. Softwood or semi-hardwood stem cuttings can also be taken in late spring or early summer and rooted in a moist, sterile medium.

Overall, Tetradium daniellii is a handsome and versatile tree that offers year-round interest with its fragrant flowers, colorful fruits, and attractive foliage. Its tolerance of various growing conditions and resistance to pests and diseases make it a popular choice for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance yet visually appealing addition to their landscapes.