did you know?

The specific epithet of this stewartia, was bestowed on it because of its striking similarity in flower and habit to the old-fashioned favorite

general maintenance:

Stewartias require little pruning; removing damaged and diseased branches is sufficient.

pests/diseases:

Japanese stewartia is relatively pest and disease free.

how to sow/plant:

Choose a sunny site with well-drained soil, making sure there is enough room for tree to reach its mature size. In early spring, dig a hole twice as wide as container or root ball. Set plant at same depth or slightly higher than it was in pot, or if balled, level with top of root ball. If plant is balled in synthetic fabric, remove carefully before backfilling. Natural-fiber burlap may be peeled back and left in ground once plant is set in hole. Fill hole around plant with soil. Mound soil to form a 2-inch-high ridge around perimeter of hole to act as a catchbasin. Water thoroughly, filling the basin and allowing water to settle several times. Spread 2-inch layer of mulch around plant.

water and fertilize:

Maintain uniform soil moisture for the first season. Be sure soil is moist before ground freezes in fall. Each spring before growth begins, apply an all-purpose fertilizer, following label directions. Once tree is established, usually by the third year, water only during drought.

garden hint:

While any stewartia is prized in the garden, multistemmed (multitrunked) specimens are often more desirable for their additional display of exfoliating bark.

features:

• Attractive Flowers
• Attractive Foliage
• Attractive Fruit
• Deciduous
• Fall Foliage
• Winter Interest

garden uses:

• Edging

other uses: