Discover the captivating beauty of the Korean Stewartia (Stewartia pseudocamellia var. koreana), a rare deciduous tree that transforms your garden into a year-round showcase of nature’s elegance. Standing 15-20 feet tall with a refined vase-shaped habit, this remarkable tree dazzles with its exfoliating bark, revealing a stunning mosaic of tan, pink, and gray hues as it matures. In the warmer months, its branches are adorned with fresh, elliptical leaves and a profusion of fragrant, 3-inch white camellia-like flowers, creating an exquisite display in early summer. Each blossom is short-lived, yet the tree blooms generously, ensuring a continuous spectacle.
As autumn approaches, Korean Stewartia becomes a mesmerizing tapestry of vivid red, orange, gold, and green foliage, while its distinctive fruits appear as brown capsules filled with shiny seeds. Hardy to -20°F and suitable for zones 5-8, this tree thrives in humus-rich, well-drained soils, enjoying sun or partial shade and protection from strong winds. This unique tree is a testament to multi-season splendor and resilience.