Family
Theaceae
Description
Mountain camellia (Stewartia ovata) is a rare and elegant deciduous shrub or small tree native to the understory of rich, mountainous woodlands in the southeastern United States. It produces large, white, camellia-like flowers in midsummer—often surprising in their timing—each with a ring of prominent golden stamens. The blooms appear singly, and the plant’s exfoliating bark and reddish fall foliage add to its appeal throughout the seasons.
A slow-growing and long-lived member of the tea family, Stewartia ovata prefers partial shade and consistently moist, acidic soils. Though difficult to propagate and somewhat particular in cultivation, it is highly valued in woodland gardens for its refinement and quiet presence. It is considered a conservation priority in parts of its native range due to habitat loss and low natural abundance.
Bloom Time
June to July
