The bark peels away in strips of gray, reddish-brown, and orange.
Since it’s a smaller tree, it’s a good fit for more compact landscapes.
It’s a popular choice because it provides homeowners with a colorful and textural show for every season.
There are no known pests or diseases that particularly affect the tree.
Light
This tree grows best in full sun to partial shade.
However, the leaves are prone to sunburn in very strong afternoon sun.
It should be shaded during the hottest times of the day.
Soil
The Japanese stewartia prefers moist, well-drained soils that are moderately fertile.
Maintain watering after its first year for wet, evenly moist soil.
Mulch during cooler months to keep moist.
When working on your tree, be careful not to hit the bark with equipment.
The bark is extra thin and susceptible to damage.
To do so, soak the seeds for 24 hours.
At this point, the seeds should have swelled.
Soak them again for about 12 hours.
Finally, before planting the seeds, germinate them by exposing them to temperatures around 68 degrees Fahrenheit.
After the seeds germinate, they can be sown in shallow soil outdoors.
Once your tree is established, however, there are no necessary steps to take for overwintering.
It could take a couple of more years until you see it flowering.
The leaves are also subject to burning if the tree is not planted in a partially shaded area.
The soil around this tree always needs to be kept moist.
If not, the tree may not survive.
If well cared for, these trees can live up to an impressive old age of 150 years.
US Department of Agriculture, Forest Service.
