Silky Camellia Stewartia malacodendron

The silky camellia is a beautiful flowering deciduous shrub or small tree that is native to North Carolina. This particular species tends to occur more in the coastal plain. Another native, known as the mountain camellia, is found in the piedmont and the Appalachian Mountains. The silky camellia may reach a height of 10 to 18 feet and has wide-spreading branches. The plant is a member of the Theaceae family and is related to the Camellia. The white Camellia-like flowers and the cinnamon-colored exfoliating bark are eye-catching in a woodland setting.

The silky camellia is native to the Southeastern United States and the Gulf Coast, but it may be rarely seen. The plant may be found as an understory tree in woodland areas or along ravines, streams, and creeks. The Department of Natural Resources has reported that in the State of Georgia, the plant is "imperiled" with only nine confirmed sightings since 2000. It is also vulnerable in Alabama, and there are rare sightings in east Texas. 

The genus's name, Stewartia, is in honor of John Stuart who was a 16th-century Scottish botanist. The spelling was the result of a transcription error. During the 19th-century, the name Stuartia was used; however, the original spelling is now accepted. The species name, malacodendron, is Greek and means "soft tree." This refers to the silky hairs on the undersides of the leaves.

The silky camellia prefers rich loamy, moist, well-drained soils, and the shelter of woodlands. The plant thrives in the morning sun but needs deep shade during the hottest part of the day.  They are difficult to transplant.  Propagation methods include seeds, softwood cuttings, or semi-hardwood cuttings. Pruning is not needed except to remove diseased or damaged limbs.

The white Camellia-like flowers have centers of purple stamens and blue anthers. The bark is smooth cinnamon color and exfoliates in strips. Silky hairs are found on the undersides of the dark green leaves and the young reddish-brown twigs. The fruit is a small oval capsule.

Consider the silky camellia as an accent or specimen in a shaded and sheltered cottage garden or woodland setting. Be aware that it has been known to be difficult to cultivate and does not like to be disturbed. 

NC native shrub or tree

Seasons of Interest:

Foliage: Fall     Bloom: Late Spring/Early Summer    Fruit:  Fall      Bark:  Winter

Quick ID Hints:

• wide-spreading branches
• cinnamon-colored exfoliating bark
• reddish-brown and hairy young twigs
• dark green leaves with silky hairs on the undersides
• white saucer-like five-petaled flowers with purple stamens and blue anthers
• small, green oval fruit capsules

Insects, Diseases, and Other Problems: The silky camellia has no serious insect or disease problems.