Japanese stewartia

Japanese Stewartia (Stewartia pseudocamellia) should be watered regularly throughout the growing season. Water the plant thoroughly and deeply when the first inch or 2 of soil feels dry to the touch. This can be done about once a week to ensure that the plant's soil stays evenly moist. Reduce watering in the winter and only water once or twice a month, making sure the soil dries out between waterings. Avoid over-watering or water-logging the soil, as this can cause root rot.

Japanese stewartia thrives when exposed to 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. It performs best when planted in an area with morning sun and afternoon shade. In areas with hotter climates, this shade is especially important to prevent the leaves from becoming scorched.

Japanese stewartia should be pruned in late winter or early spring before the plant begins to put out new growth. Prune lightly to maintain the shrubby form of the Japanese stewartia. Remove any weak or dead branches, as well as any crossing branches or suckers. Make sure to prune back no more than 1/3 of the total canopy. Rejuvenation pruning may be done to completely renovate the plant by removing some of the old, thickest branches and leaving the younger, more vigorous branches unharmed.