Stewartia pseudocamellia ~ Japanese Stewartia

1. Japanese Stewartia is a small to medium-sized tree that typically reaches heights of 20 to 40 feet (6 to 12 meters). It has a rounded crown and smooth, grayish-brown bark that exfoliates in patches, revealing a mosaic of colors. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and oval-shaped with serrated edges. In the fall, they turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow.

2. Flowers: One of the highlights of the Japanese Stewartia is its stunning flowers. In early summer, it produces large, showy, white or creamy-white flowers with yellow stamens. The flowers resemble camellias, hence the species name "pseudocamellia." They have a delicate and intricate appearance, adding elegance to the tree.

3. Habitat: Japanese Stewartia thrives in well-drained, acidic soils and prefers partial shade to full sun. It is commonly found in woodland areas, along stream banks, and in gardens as an ornamental tree.

MAINTENANCE NEEDS:  Low Maintenance.  Intolerant of drought.    Avoid planting in afternoon sun in the South.  Transplant while young.  No serious pests or diseases.

LANDSCAPE USES:  Accents or Group Plantings, Borders, Woodland Gardens, Naturalized Areas, Wildlife Gardens,  Privacy Screen, and Shade Tree.

COMPANION PLANTS: Camellia, Astilbe, Hosta

IMAGE: Krzysztof Golik, Stewartia pseudocamellia in Hackfalls Arboretum (4), CC BY-SA 4.0

Emőke Dénes, Ericales - Stewartia pseudocamellia - 4, CC BY-SA 4.0

Krzysztof Golik, Stewartia pseudocamellia in Hackfalls Arboretum (1), CC BY-SA 4.0