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Growing Info

Scarification: Soak in water, let stand in water for 24 hours

Stratification: warm stratify for 120 days, cold stratify for 90 days

Germination: sow seed 1/4" deep, tamp the soil, mulch the seed bed

Native to: China, Hubei, Sichuan

Native

Introduced

Stewartia sinensisStewartia sinensis

Chinese Stewartia

In Stock: 0.608 lb (Total:0.608lb)

Stewartia sinensis

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0.61 lb

Details

Germination:

83%

Germination test:

estimate

Purity:

99%

Seeds per lb:

39,552

Quantity:

0.61 lb

Collected in:

China

Crop year:

2004

Min. hardiness zone:

Item ID:

14542

Characteristics

Growing Info

Scarification: Soak in water, let stand in water for 24 hours

Stratification: warm stratify for 120 days, cold stratify for 90 days

Germination: sow seed 1/4" deep, tamp the soil, mulch the seed bed

Native to: China, Hubei, Sichuan

Native

Introduced

Discover the exquisite beauty of Stewartia sinensis, commonly known as Chinese Stewartia. This captivating deciduous shrub or small tree, reaching heights of 15-25 feet and widths of 10-20 feet, is an ornamental masterpiece that brings year-round enchantment to any garden. Its appeal lies in its distinctive peeling, reddish-brown bark, reminiscent of fine paper, that reveals a tapestry of warm, buff tones, adding interest even in winter.

Blooming from May to July, Chinese Stewartia graces its surroundings with fragrant, white, bowl-shaped flowers, adorned with golden stamens, attracting an array of pollinators. The foliage presents an elegant transition from dark green ovate leaves to striking reddish-brown or purple hues in the fall. Come autumn, its woody capsules burst open, offering further visual delight.

Native to Central and Southeast China, this splendid plant thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soils rich in organic matter. Though intolerant to drought, it rewards with unrivaled seasonal interest if sheltered from strong winds. Ideal for zones 5-9, Chinese Stewartia excels as a focal point or a picturesque addition to informal or pollinator gardens.

Honor the legacy of 16th-century botanist John Stuart with Stewartia sinensis, and experience the refined elegance it brings to the temperate garden—a true four-seasons wonder!