A multistemmed, deciduous tree with a rounded columnar form, stewartia features stunning bark that exfoliates in strips of gray, orange, and reddish brown once the trunk attains a diameter of 2 to 3 inches. Serrated foliage emerges bronzy purple in spring, develops into a dark green by summer, and turns red or orange in the fall. In midsummer, glamorous white camellia-like flowers open in random succession and are followed by pointed brown seedpods, which are persistent but not very ornamental.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsThis tree grows somewhat slowly until established, eventually reaching up to 40 feet tall and 20 feet wide. It is an excellent specimen tree.
CareGrow in moist, acidic, well-drained soil in full-morning sun or partial shade. Avoid a site with hot afternoon sun. Does not do well in areas where temperatures remain high during the night.
PropagationTake greenwood cuttings in early summer, or semiripe cuttings in mid to late summer.
ProblemsInfrequent
Fine Gardening Recommended Products
DeWalt Variable-Speed Cordless Reciprocating Saw
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
DeWalt Variable-Speed Cordless Reciprocating Saw with 6-Piece Saw Blade Set
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
- Genus : Stewartia
- Plant Width : 15 to 30 feet
- Plant Height : 30 feet or more
- Zones : 5, 6, 7, 8
- Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
- Flower Color : Green, White
- Characteristics : Interesting Bark, Showy Fall Foliage, Showy Foliage
- Moisture : Medium Moisture
- Growth Rate : Slow
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest
- Bloom Time : Summer
- Plant Type : Trees
Plant Characteristics are only available to Fine Gardening members
Sign up for a free trial and get instant access to our complete plant guide as well as our entire collection of articles and videos.
