he Japanese Stewartia is a small to medium-sized deciduous flowering tree with multi-season interest. It is multistemmed and pyramidal to oval-shaped with low branches. The plant may reach a height of 12 to 40 feet tall and 8 to 25 feet wide. White Camellia-like flowers appear from June to August, and the fall foliage has bright colors. The attractive flaking and peeling bark adds a special interest to the winter garden. The plant is a member of the Theaceae family and is related to the Camellia. The Japanese Stewartia prefers moist, well-drained, organically rich, sandy, loamy, soils. The tree will not do well in clay, rocky, or dry soils, and it is drought intolerant. Sheltering is required to protect the tree from winter winds. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. In very hot, humid, summer climates, it is best to avoid the hot afternoon sun. It is slow-growing, and it may be difficult to transplant. Consider this plant if you live in USDA Hardiness Zones 5a to 8b. The Japanese Stewartia may be well suited as a specimen plant near a patio, as a border, in small groups, or woodland setting. This tree will truly add multi-season interest to your home landscape.