Chinese stewartia (Stewartia sinensis)

Chinese stewartia

Chinese stewartia (Stewartia sinensis) is a deciduous, ornamental tree that will grow to 7 m tall and 7 m wide. A slow-growing tree that can live for 70 years or more. Low maintenance, it makes a great shade or accent tree for the garden. Grows in full sun or partial shade and features a distinctive pyramidal form. Blooms in summer with large, showy white flowers with orange centers.

Scientific classification

Species

Chinese stewartia (Stewartia sinensis)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

9 m

Plant Height

7 m

Spread

Green, Red

Leaf Color

4 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper, Cream, Tan

Fruit Color

Summer

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Chinese stewartia

Distribution of Chinese stewartia

Distribution Map

The chinese stewartia is originally from East Asia and has a natural distribution confined to this region. Beyond its native range, chinese stewartia has been cultivated and thrives in various temperate zones worldwide, where it's appreciated for ornamental purposes due to its distinctive characteristics.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

in moist woodland in mountains.

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Interesting Facts

Chinese stewartia (Stewartia sinensis) has earned the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit.

Name Story

Chinese stewartia: Chinese stewartia (Stewartia sinensis) was named in 1753 by Carl Linnaeus to honor John Stuart, the 3rd Earl of Bute, who served as Prime Minister of Great Britain during the rule of George III. It is believed that “stewartia” was a transcription error and it should have been “stuartia”, but the original spelling remains.

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Quickly Identify Chinese stewartia

Distinctive peeling bark in reddish-brown and tan layers, resembling paper texture.

White, bowl-shaped flowers with golden stamens, similar to Camellia blooms.

Fruit is a woody capsule opening into five segments, covered with dense, hairy textures.

Leaves are elliptic to obovate-elliptic, serrated margins, turning reddish-brown to purple in autumn.

Stem with purplish-red hue, varying texture, supporting multiple branches in intricate pattern.

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Care Guide for Chinese stewartia

Every 3 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Chinese stewartia thrives in humid woodlands, preferring moderate moisture and exhibiting drought tolerance. Water every three weeks, keeping soil slightly damp. Its watering needs align with growth cycles, requiring consistent moisture during spring and summer to promote vibrant flowers.

Fertilize: Chinese stewartia thrives with balanced nutrition fertilizers applied in spring and midsummer, with precautions against over-fertilization. Frequency should decrease in fall and winter. Water post-application to enhance nutrient absorption, and consider slow-release formulas for novices and liquid options for experienced gardeners.

Pruning: Chinese stewartia, valued for its white flowers and exfoliating bark, requires pruning in early spring. Techniques include removing dead branches and thinning crowded limbs to enhance air circulation and light. Pruning shapes the canopy, improves aesthetics, and encourages vigorous growth.

Propagation: Chinese stewartia is appreciated for its ornamental foliage and attractive flowers. For propagation, harvest ripe seeds and sow in well-draining soil, maintaining consistent moisture. After germination, gradually acclimatize seedlings to ensure a smooth transition to their permanent environment.

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