Japanese Stewartia Plant Care

Stewartia pseudocamellia Maxim.

Stewartia pseudocamellia, also known as Korean stewartia, Japanese stewartia, or deciduous camellia, is a species of flowering plant in the family Theaceae, native to Japan and Korea.

Water

Every 7–10 days

Light

Partial shade to full sun

Temp

50–80°F

Humidity

40–70%

What Is the Japanese Stewartia?

Japanese Stewartia (Stewartia pseudocamellia) belongs to the Theaceae family within the Stewartia genus. Japanese Stewartia is native to Japan and Korea. Japanese Stewartia is also known as Tall Stewartia.

Japanese Stewartia displays a small to medium-sized tree growth habit, reaching up to 30 inches tall with a spread of approximately 20 inches. Japanese Stewartia produces large, showy white flowers with yellow stamens.

Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.

How Often Should You Water a Japanese Stewartia?

Stewartia pseudocamellia requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Watering Frequency

Every 7–10 days

Let soil partially dry between waterings

What Light Does the Japanese Stewartia Need?

Japanese Stewartia thrives in partial shade to full sun light conditions. The optimal light range is 100–1000 lux. Avoid placing Japanese Stewartia in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Light Requirement

Partial shade to full sun

100–1000 lux

What Temperature and Humidity Does the Japanese Stewartia Prefer?

Stewartia pseudocamellia grows best at temperatures between 50°F and 80°F. Japanese Stewartia prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.

Temperature

50–80°F

Humidity

40–70%

What Soil Mix Works Best for a Japanese Stewartia?

Moist, well-draining acidic soil with high organic content. Good drainage is essential for Japanese Stewartia to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

How Do You Repot a Japanese Stewartia?

Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

How Do You Propagate a Japanese Stewartia?

Japanese Stewartia can be propagated through seeds, semi-hardwood cuttings.

Fertilizing

Every 6 months

During the growing season

Is the Japanese Stewartia Toxic to Pets and Children?

Non-Toxic

Non-toxic to humans and pets

What Pests and Diseases Affect the Japanese Stewartia?

Japanese Stewartia is susceptible to aphids, scale insects, spider mites. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Japanese Stewartia Need?

Japanese Stewartia grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. Native to Japan and Korea, Japanese Stewartia is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Japanese Stewartia as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.

Hardiness Zone

Zone 12a

Keep exploring plants

Japanese Stewartia is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.

It belongs to the Stewartia genus — compare its care with other Stewartia species on PlantoScan.

Japanese Stewartia tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.

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