Stewartia pseudocamellia (Japanese Stewartia)

Stewartia pseudocamellia (Japanese Stewartia), 'Japanese Stewartia' is valued in the landscape for character, form, and seasonal interest.

Japanese Stewartia , refined small flowering tree with white camellia-like summer flowers, exfoliating cinnamon-and-cream patchwork bark, and brilliant red-purple-orange fall color. One of the most exquisite small trees grown.

Part shade suits this species. Plant in moist, well-drained, slightly acidic, humus-rich soil. Hardy USDA Zone 5 to 8. Site sheltered with afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Provide consistent moisture and humus-rich soil. Generally trouble-free.

For a Pacific Northwest native counterpart in scale and bloom, consider Amelanchier alnifolia (Saskatoon / Western Serviceberry) for white spring flowers and edible blue berries, or Cornus nuttallii (Pacific Dogwood) for show-stopping spring bracts in light shade.