Stewartia pseudocamellia aka Korean Stewartia
Taxonomy
Stewartia pseudocamellia, also known as Korean stewartia, Japanese stewartia, or deciduous camellia, is a species of flowering tree in the family Theaceae. Native to Japan (southern Honshū, Kyūshū, Shikoku) and Korea, this tree belongs to the Koreana Group and is characterized by its small, open form and flaking bark. The broad-ovate leaves of this tree turn a vibrant red and orange during the autumn season. In the summer, solitary or paired, wide-open white flowers up to 7cm in width grace its branches. Known for its attractive bark, Stewartia pseudocamellia is upright when young and gradually develops an oval to pyramidal shape as it ages. It can have a single or multi-trunked structure. This flowering tree thrives in well-drained, acidic loam soil that is rich in organic matter.
Common names
Korean Stewartia, Japanese Stewartia, Deciduous CamelliaHow to care for Korean Stewartia
Difficulty
With its straightforward care requirements, Korean Stewartia is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.
Water
Korean Stewartia should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Korean Stewartia loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Korean Stewartia prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Toxicity
There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.
Fertilizer
The Korean Stewartia is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.
Growth-pattern
New growth will sprout from the top of the Korean Stewartia as it grows vertically.
Region of origin
Korean Stewartia’s native range is E. Asia - C. and S. Japan.
More info:
Wikipedia
