WSU Clark County Extension
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Japanese Stewartia

Scientific name: Stewartia pseudocamellia
Taxonomy
Family:Theaceae
Type:Deciduous tree
Native:NO
Plant Requirements
Zone:5 to 8
Sun:Full to partial sun
Moisture:Medium
Plant Characteristics
Height:35 ft
Width:25 ft
Bloom:Showy flowers
Bloom Time:June to August
Bloom Color:White
Additional Characteristics
Trees


Fruit

Leaves


Bark
Wildlife value

Poisonous
Description With its white camellia-like blooms in summer, and exfoliating camouflage bark with shades of green, orange, and grey Japanese Stewartia makes a true signature tree in the landscape.

  Morphology:
This deciduous tree grows into a pyramidal form that can attain 40’ in height and 25’ in width. The leaves are elliptic in shape and 3” in length. They are arranged in an alternative fashion. During summer the foliage is dark green, while in the fall it turns to reddish-orange and burgundy. This multi-stem tree can be trained to a central stem.

Flowers form all summer long. They are quite beautiful as the orange anthers contrast nicely with the white petals. As individual flowers fade new ones emerge sequentially. Flowers morph to triangular capsules that are brown in color. The fruit pods don’t contribute to the ornamental value.

The bark on this tree is interesting as well.

  Adaptation:
Japanese Stewartia prefers rich moist soil. As for sun exposure it does fine with full sun in cooler climates but does prefer some shade in the warmer locations.

Problems:
No serious insect or disease problems.
For assistance, contact Dr. Charles Brun (brunc@wsu.edu), (360) 397-6060 5701
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