Also known as Japanese Stewartia · Orange-Bark Stewartia
Stewartia monadelpha, the Tall Stewartia, is an elegant deciduous tree prized for its exfoliating bark, white summer flowers, and vibrant fall foliage.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade to Full Sun
50% intensity
Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Protect from intense afternoon sun in hotter climates.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil.
Acidic, Moist, Well-drained
50% intensity
Hardy
50% intensity
Hardy in USDA zones 5-8. Tolerates a range of temperatures but appreciates protection from extreme heat.
Moderate
25% intensity
Fertilize annually in early spring with a balanced, acid-loving plant fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
No significant toxicity to pets or humans.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Stewartia monadelpha prefers consistently moist soil, especially during its establishment phase and hot, dry periods. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Reduce watering frequency in cooler months.
Prune to shape and maintain a desirable form, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
Minimal pruning is usually required as the tree has an attractive natural habit.
Propagate Stewartia monadelpha by softwood cuttings taken in early summer or by seeds sown in a cold frame in autumn. Seeds require a period of stratification to germinate effectively.
Cuttings may take time to root but offer a more direct way to establish new plants.
Young plants may require repotting every 2-3 years, usually in early spring, to refresh the soil and provide more space for root growth. Use a well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix.
Mature trees in the landscape generally do not require repotting.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Tall Stewartia (Stewartia monadelpha)
Where Tall Stewartia (Stewartia monadelpha) is found
Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Theaceae |
| Genus | Stewartia |
| Species | Stewartia monadelpha |
Similar in genus Stewartia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
