Natsu-tsubaki Stewartia pseudocamellia

The Japanese Stewartia is a small to medium-sized deciduous flowering tree with multi-season interest. It is multistemmed and pyramidal to oval-shaped with low branches. The plant may reach a height of 12 to 40 feet tall and 8 to 25 feet wide. White Camellia-like flowers appear from June to August, and the fall foliage has bright colors. The attractive flaking and peeling bark adds a special interest to the winter garden. The plant is a member of the Theaceae family and is related to the Camellia. 

The Japanese Stewartia is native to Japan and Korea. It is typically found in mountain forests. The tree is commonly grown in Europe and North America. It is tolerant of the cold weather of New England.

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, pseudocamellia, means "false camellia."

The Japanese Stewartia prefers moist, well-drained, organically rich, sandy, loamy, soils. The tree will not do well in clay, rocky, or dry soils, and it is drought intolerant. Sheltering is required to protect the tree from winter winds. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. In very hot, humid, summer climates, it is best to avoid the hot afternoon sun. It is slow-growing, and it may be difficult to transplant. The tree may be propagated by seeds and softwood cuttings.

The bark of the Japanese Stewartia is multi-colored and peels in strips of gray, orange, and reddish-brown. The leaves are dark green and transition to a brilliant orange, red, and burgundy in the fall. The flowers are delicate, cup-shaped white flowers with golden centers. The fruits are greenish to brownish, oval, and hard capsules. 

Consider this plant if you live in USDA Hardiness Zones 5a to 8b.  The Japanese Stewartia may be well suited as a specimen plant near a patio, as a border, in small groups, or woodland setting. This tree will truly add multi-season interest to your home landscape.

Seasons of Interest:

Foliage: Fall             Bloom:  Summer       Fruit:  Fall        Bark:  Winter

Quick ID Hints:

• exfoliating bark with strips of gray, orange, and reddish-brown, and the surface beneath is smooth
• dark green elliptical to obovate leaves
• fall foliage are shades of yellow, red, and purple
• white Camellia-like flowers with gold stamens in the center
• green to brownish fruit capsules

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