Overview
Stewartia Bonsai (Stewartia species) is a refined deciduous tree with camellia-like flowers, smooth flaking bark and autumn colour. It is best suited to elegant specimen bonsai, informal upright and woodland styles. For UK growers, treat it as: Outdoor.
Placement
morning sun or partial shade with protection from hot drying conditions
Watering
keep evenly moist; dislikes drying out
Feeding and fertilising
feed moderately during spring and summer
Pruning and wiring
prune carefully after flowering or in dormancy; build ramification slowly
Repotting
repot every 2-3 years in early spring using slightly acidic soil
Propagation
seed, cuttings or layering, often slow
Pests, diseases and common issues
drought stress, leaf scorch, root disturbance and slow recovery after heavy work