Stewartia ovata aka Mountain Stewartia

Stewartia ovata is a slow-growing deciduous shrub or small tree, typically reaching 10–15 feet (3–4.5 m) tall with a similar spread of 10–15 feet. In the wild it can grow up to about 5 m (16 ft) tall. The habit is rounded to oval.

Native to the southern Appalachian Mountains and surrounding lowlands in the southeastern United States, from Mississippi north to Virginia. It grows as an understory plant in predominantly hardwood forests, usually near streams at elevations below 800 m (2,600 ft).

Hardy in USDA zones 5–9. Tolerates cold winters but may suffer leaf scorch in very hot climates; partial shade is recommended in the hotter end of its range.

Stewartia ovata flowers in early to mid-summer (July). Fall brings attractive foliage in shades of orange and red. During summer heat, ensure consistent moisture as the plant is sensitive to drought.

Flowers are large, solitary, and white, resembling camellias at 6–12 cm (2.4–4.7 in) in diameter. They have five petals with ruffled edges and numerous stamens that may be white, yellow, or purple depending on variety; cultivars often feature orange anthers. Bloom time is early to mid-summer (July).

Two botanical varieties are recognized, differing in flower size and stamen color. The variety grandiflora (Stewartia ovata var. grandiflora) is known for larger flowers.

Stewartia ovata is strictly an outdoor plant, native to the southeastern United States. It performs best in partial shade to full sun in moist, well-drained, acidic loamy soil. It is sensitive to drought and soil compaction. Not suitable as a houseplant.

Stewartia ovata can be propagated from seeds or softwood cuttings. The plant is noted as difficult to cultivate and transplant, so established plants should not be moved.

Stewartia ovata has no serious insect or disease problems. The main cultural issues are drought stress and leaf scorch in hot climates.

Stewartia ovata flowers are large and showy with numerous stamens, characteristic of insect-pollinated plants in the family Theaceae. No specific pollinator studies were found in the sources consulted, but the flower morphology is consistent with bee and other insect pollination.