Korean Stewartia

The Korean Stewartia (Stewartia koreana) is a medium-sized flowering ornamental tree with multiple seasons of interest. It has a pyramidal form with upright branches and interwoven branchlets creating a dense canopy that casts thick shade. In June and July after most trees are done flowering, medium-sized, white-petaled flowers with yellow centers start to bloom on this tree, showing off a magnificent summer display of light colored flowers contrasting against dark green foliage. In the fall, the oval, pointed leaves often turn shades of orange, red, and purple, but it typically does not have great fall color every year. After the leaves drop, the smooth gray, flaking bark with patches of orange to brown inner bark is revealed, providing outstanding winter interest.  

The Korean Stewartia is native to Korea and was introduced to the trade in the United States by E.H. Wilson in 1917. This tree is a great option as a specimen tree in the yard for its appealing form and year-round ornamental interest. It can also be a great tree near a patio or on a street. When planted in groups, it can make a good shrub border. An adaptable tree, it can do well in full sun but prefers some shade during the hottest part of the day and likes moist, slightly acidic soils.