Stewartia pseudocamellia

This unusual ornamental shrub or multi-stemmed tree delivers multiple seasons of interest with attractive mottled bark in winter and early spring, showy summer flowers and stunning autumn colour.Stewartia pseudocamellia makes an exceptional specimen for a sheltered position in neutral to acid soil. It forms a sturdy shrub or broadly columnar tree, clothed in dark green, finely serrated, ovate leaves. During winter and early spring, an attractive feature is its peeling bark, which creates a marbled pattern of creams and browns. From June to August, it bears many small, white, camellia-like, cupped flowers, about 6cm-8cm in diameter, which bear bright golden anthers. The flowers are succeeded by a spectacular autumn display when the foliage blazes yellow-orange and finally red-purple. This fine specimen tree has the added advantage of being resistant to Honey Fungus. RHS Award of Garden Merit.Height: 8-12m (26-40ft). Spread: 8m (26ft).