Many trees, known as “honey tree plants,” are highly valued by beekeepers for their abundant nectar and pollen. The Japanese Pagoda Tree (Styphnolobium japonicum) and the Bee-Bee Tree (Tetradium daniellii) are prime examples. These trees provide crucial resources for bee colonies, playing a significant role in honey production and sustaining bee populations.
Understanding the Honey Tree Plant
The Japanese Pagoda Tree typically grows 50 to 75 feet tall with a similar spread, forming a broad, rounded canopy that matures into a graceful, vase-like shape. Its pinnately compound leaves give the foliage a fine texture. Native to East Asia, it is hardy in USDA Zones 4 through 8.
The Bee-Bee Tree is a medium-sized tree, usually reaching 20 to 30 feet tall with a similar spread, often exhibiting an upright, oval habit. Its pinnately compound leaves are larger, providing a coarser texture. Native to China and Korea, it also thrives in USDA Zones 4 through 8.
The Japanese Pagoda Tree produces creamy white, pea-like flowers in large, drooping clusters up to 12 inches long. These blooms typically appear in late summer, from July to August, when other nectar sources are scarce. The Bee-Bee Tree flowers from July to September, producing clusters of small, fragrant white flowers.
Cultivating the Honey Tree Plant
Both the Japanese Pagoda Tree and the Bee-Bee Tree thrive in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering. They are adaptable to a range of soil types but perform best in well-drained soils, tolerating both sandy and clay compositions as long as water does not stand. Adequate space should be provided, considering their mature size, to allow for proper root and canopy development.
The best time to plant these trees is in the spring or fall, when temperatures are moderate and rainfall is more consistent. When planting, dig a hole that is two to three times wider than the root ball but only as deep as the root ball itself. The tree should be placed so that the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the surrounding soil grade. After positioning, backfill the hole gently with soil, tamping lightly to remove large air pockets, and then water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
Consistent watering is essential during the establishment period, typically the first one to two years after planting. Young trees should receive deep watering once or twice a week, depending on rainfall and soil conditions, to encourage deep root growth. Once established, these trees are relatively drought-tolerant and require less frequent irrigation. Fertilization is generally not necessary for established trees in healthy soil, but a balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied in early spring for young or struggling plants to promote vigor.
Pruning should primarily focus on maintaining a strong structure and removing any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. This general maintenance pruning is best performed in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Both species are relatively resistant to most pests and diseases, though occasional issues like leaf spot or cankers can occur. Good air circulation and proper watering practices help prevent many common fungal problems.
Honey Tree Plant’s Value to Pollinators
These trees are highly valued for their contribution to honey production, especially in late summer when other nectar sources are scarce. The Japanese Pagoda Tree’s late-season bloom (July-August) provides nectar that helps bees build winter stores. Its flowers attract various bee species, supplying both nectar and pollen. The resulting honey is often light-colored with a mild, pleasant flavor.
The Bee-Bee Tree, flowering from July to September, offers an abundant supply of nectar, leading to significant honey harvests. Its honey is typically light amber with a distinctive fruity flavor. Both species provide a consistent and ample food source, supporting bee health and ensuring strong colonies.
The quantity and quality of nectar and pollen produced by these trees are highly valuable for beekeepers. They help ensure strong bee colonies, contributing to the overall health of local ecosystems by supporting pollinator populations. This late-season forage allows bees to replenish their honey reserves for colder months, boosting honey yields and improving the vitality of nearby bee populations.
Important Considerations for Growing Honey Trees
Both the Japanese Pagoda Tree and the Bee-Bee Tree mature into large specimens, requiring significant space for their full height and canopy spread. Their mature size should be carefully considered to avoid conflicts with structures, power lines, or other plantings. These long-lived trees provide decades of benefit once established.
Both trees can create some mess, particularly from falling flowers during their bloom period and later from their seed pods. The Japanese Pagoda Tree produces distinctive bean-like pods that persist into winter, while the Bee-Bee Tree develops clusters of small, black fruit. These can be a consideration for planting locations near patios, walkways, or swimming pools where debris might be undesirable. Regular cleanup may be necessary in such areas.
The Japanese Pagoda Tree (Styphnolobium japonicum) has toxic parts, including seeds, pods, and leaves, due to alkaloids. Caution should be exercised, especially in areas accessible to children or pets. The Bee-Bee Tree (Tetradium daniellii) is generally not considered toxic, but its seeds can self-sow aggressively in some regions, potentially leading to its spread.