Stewartia

Theaceae
Deciduous, Trees

Japan, Korea. Slow-growing, all-season performers that show off fresh green leaves in spring, white flowers resembling single camellias in summer, and colorful foliage in fall. In winter, distinctive pattern of bare branches is on show, as is smooth bark that flakes off in varying degrees, depending on species. All grow best in acid, organically enriched soil. Good in woodland garden and as foreground specimens against backdrop of larger, darker-leafed trees.

Stewartia monadelpha

Native to Japan, Korea. Grows 25 ft. tall, 20 ft. wide, with slender, upward-angled branches. Leaves are 1 1/2 to 3 in. long, turn brilliant red in fall. Small (to 1/2 -in.) flowers. Rich brown, scaly bark when young; smooth cinnamon-colored bark when older.

Stewartia pseudocamellia

Native to Japan and Korea. Pyramidal form; may reach 30 to 40 ft. tall, 20 to 25 ft. wide after many years. Leaves are 2 1/2 to 3 in. long; turn orange-red to purple in autumn. Cup-shaped, 2 1/2-in.-wide flowers have orange anthers. Very showy bark: it flakes off to show a patchwork of green, gray, brown, rust, terra-cotta, and cream. Members of Koreana group (Stewartoa koreana, Stewartia pseudocamellia koreana) have orange or orange-red fall color and 3-in.-wide flowers that open out flatter than the usual.