Silky Camellia
Stewartia malacodendron
If you’ve been searching for something truly special to showcase in your garden, look no further than the woodland treasure that is Silky Camellia. This spectacular small tree is a true jewel of the Southeast, rarer even in the wild than it is in the trade. While most of our native flowering trees flower in spring, Silky Camellia puts on a glorious floral display in summertime with its large and exquisite white flowers. The show continues into winter after the leaves fall to reveal striped cinnamon-colored bark. This understory tree is very difficult to propagate and tricky to establish. Plant carefully in a sheltered location with part or dappled shade to protect it from spring frost and harsh wind, and enjoy one of the rarest and most beautiful trees eastern North America has to offer.
Conditions: Part shade; rich, well drained soil
Size: 8′ – 12′ tall, 10′ spread
Zone: 7 – 9
Wildlife Value: Flowers attract bees and butterflies; birds eat seeds
