Source: Wikimedia Commons
Tall stewartia
IntermediateStewartia monadelpha
A deciduous tree of the camellia family whose smooth, red-brown trunk is counted among Japan's three most beautiful barks. Small white flowers 1.5–2 cm across nod in early summer, and leaves turn red in autumn. Smaller in flower and leaf than Stewartia pseudocamellia.
About
Hime-shara (Stewartia monadelpha) is a deciduous tree of the camellia family native to Japan, growing in mountains of Honshu west of Hakone (except Chugoku), Shikoku and Kyushu. The name means 'little shara', as its flowers and leaves are smaller than those of the Japanese stewartia (S. pseudocamellia), known as shara-no-ki. From May to July it bears nodding white to pale pink flowers 1.5–2 cm across; the leaves are 3–8 cm with shallow teeth and turn red in autumn. The trunk is the highlight: smooth red-brown bark on young trees becomes mottled grey, flakes and turns red-brown again. It is counted with Firmiana simplex and white birch among Japan's three most beautiful trunks, and in deciduous bonsai its bark and small leaves are valued. S. pseudocamellia differs in its 5–6 cm flowers and bark that peels in patches rather than becoming smooth. Naturally a tree of rich, moist mountain soil, it scorches in strong summer sun or drought and may die back from the tips after transplanting. Young plants are sold by garden centres, wildflower nurseries and bonsai shops.
Size of the Tall stewartia
The Tall stewartia grows to 7–15 m tall (kept small in bonsai pots).
Basic Info
Origin
Japan (mountains of Honshu west of Hakone, Shikoku and Kyushu)
Lifespan
Little data on lifespan
Size
7–15 m tall (kept small in bonsai pots)
Temperature
-5〜35℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Fertilizer (moderately in the growing season)
Growing Tips
Light & placement
Likes sun but dislikes strong summer and western sun, scorching when dry. Give part shade or shade cloth in summer; fairly shade-tolerant for a flowering tree
Watering
Shallow roots dry out quickly. A tree of moist mountain soils—never let it dry out, especially in summer
Temperature & overwintering
Prefers milder areas; its natural northern limit is Hakone (USDA zones 6b–8b). Fairly heat-tolerant
Soil & repotting
Needs fertile, moist yet well-drained soil and sulks in the wrong mix. Dislikes being moved and may die back from the tips after repotting
Pruning & styling
Flowers form on the current year's shoots, so avoid pruning in spring to early summer. Hard cuts spoil the shape
Pests & cautions
Like camellias it can host tea tussock moth caterpillars—check leaf undersides for eggs in April–May. It is native—buy nursery-grown plants, not wild-dug ones
Tall stewartia FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Tall stewartia?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QHow large does Tall stewartia get?
The mature size of Tall stewartia is 7–15 m tall (kept small in bonsai pots). This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Tall stewartia?
Tall stewartia: watering & fertilizer — Fertilizer (moderately in the growing season). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Tall stewartia?
The price of Tall stewartia varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed by CITES and not regulated for domestic sale. It is native to Japan—choose nursery-grown plants rather than wild-collected ones.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing search)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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