Buttonbush

buttonbush from a distance
Buttonbush, Polk County

Buttonbush, Cephalanthus occidentalis

This is a bush, and I have seen it incorporated into manicured settings (as opposed to wild ones) as a tree once (see photo). Buttonbushes can handle wet conditions well. Full bloom comes to central Iowa in July and August.

They hold their flowers for a while after blooming (see photo).

buttonbush bark
Buttonbush bark
glossy leaves of buttonbush
Buttonbushes have glossy leaves
buttonbush flower
Buttonbush flower, Polk County
buttonbush as a tree
Buttonbush maintained as a tree, Polk County