staphyle

Staphyle, commonly known as bladdernut, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Staphyleaceae. The genus is native to temperate regions of Europe, Asia, and North America and includes several species cultivated for ornamental use. Staphylea species are deciduous shrubs or small to medium-sized trees, typically reaching 2–8 meters in height. They have compound leaves, usually pinnate with three leaflets, though some species have five leaflets; leaflets are oval with serrated margins.

In spring, the plants bear panicles of small, white, bell-shaped flowers that are insect-pollinated. The most distinctive feature is the fruit: a light, inflated, papery capsule (bladder) that splits open to reveal seeds, giving rise to the common name bladdernut.

Staphylea species occur in woodlands, scrub, and along streams, often tolerating a range of soils and light conditions. They are widely grown as ornamental shrubs or small trees in parks and gardens for their showy flowers, distinctive fruit, and versatility in hedges or screens.

Key species include Staphylea pinnata (European bladdernut), Staphylea trifolia (American bladdernut), and Staphylea colchica (Caucasian bladdernut). The genus belongs to the family Staphyleaceae within the order Malpighiales.

Etymology: The name Staphyle derives from Greek staphyle, meaning a cluster or bunch, referencing the fruiting clusters.