Common Name: Japanese Stewartia

General Information

Stewartia pseudocamellia is a deciduous tree with a pyramidal crown; slow-growing, it can eventially reach a height of 6 - 12 metres. In cultivation the plant is often a multistemmed shrub up to 3.5 metres tall[].
We have seen one report that this species has edible leaves, though this is somewhat questionable. The plant is mainly grown as an ornamental.
Stewartia pseudocamellia has a wide range and faces no known major threats. It is also widely cultivated as an ornamental. The plant is classified as 'Least Concern' in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species(2018)[].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

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Range

E. Asia -southern Korea, central and southern Japan.

Habitat

Semi-shaded habitats in moist woodland in mountains[, ].

Properties

Conservation Status	Least Concern
Edibility Rating
Habit	Deciduous Tree
Height	15.00 m
Pollinators	Insects
Cultivation Status	Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

Stewartia pseudocamellia is cold-hardy to about -20°c when dormant[].
Requires a deep humus-rich moist but not boggy soil[]. Dislikes limey soils, preferring peaty conditions[, ]. Prefers a position with some shade, at least from the midday sun[]. Another report says that it prefers a sunny sheltered position[]. The tree is said to grow best in an acid soi, with a pH 4.5 - 6.5, with ample moisture and high organic matter content. But trees are also found growing very well without irrigation in poor quality, compacted clay soils[].
A slow-growing tree[].
Resents root disturbance, plants should be put in their permanent positions as soon as possible[, ].
Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus[].

Edible Uses

Young leaves - cooked[].

Medicinal

None known

Other Uses

None known

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame or in an outdoor seedbed if there is sufficient seed[]. Stored seed is best soaked for 3 days in warm water and then given 3 - 5 months warm stratification followed by 3 months cold stratification at 5°c, it can take 18 months to germinate[]. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots once they are large enough to handle and grow them on in a cold frame for their first winter. Plant out in early summer.
Cuttings of short side branches, 8cm with a heel, mid summer in a frame[, ]. One report says it is best to keep the cuttings growing through the winter if possible[] whilst another says they should be allowed to become dormant once they have rooted[].
Layering.