What: One of the most beautiful small trees for the landscape, Japanese stewartia has delightful saucer-shaped white flowers that sparkle on the branches in early summer. Its dark green leaves become a riot of saturated oranges and flaming reds in the autumn. As the tree matures, a beautiful patchwork of pink, red-brown and gray develop on the bark along its trunk and branches. No serious insect or disease problems bother this tree. Its striking branching pattern and decorative bark stand out best against an evergreen backdrop. This is a great tree for small spaces.
Where: Plant Stewartia pseudocamellia in full sun or light to open shade. Provide a location with a rich well-drained or sandy soil.
Size: Japanese stewartia will grow to be 25 feet tall with a spread of 12 feet when mature.
Care: Water regularly during dry weather. Little pruning is needed and heavy pruning can ruin the form of this lovely tree. Consult an expert pruner or take a local class before attempting to prune.
— Richie Steffen, Great Plant Pick
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