Tree of the Month - July 2016

What is tree of the month?

Stewartia monadelpha

Why is it tree of the month?

Stewartia is a member of the tea family, Theaceae, as suggested by the solitary white flowers that appear in summer. S. monadelpha has the smallest flowers in the genus and these are borne in some profusion on branches throughout the crown. The flowers have conspicuous bracteoles which are a useful aid to identification and the tree is also notable for its reddish bark which peels.

The genus was named after John Stuart, Earl of Bute (1713-92), though Linnaeus was misled into spelling the generic name ‘Stewartia’ rather than ’Stuartia’ which led to some confusion around which should be used. Though there was widespread use of ‘Stuartia’ in the 19th century, the accepted spelling is Stewartia, as found in modern botanical texts.

Where can I find it?

Currently we have just two trees here at Westonbirt. These are both on Circular Drive in the Old Arboretum and enjoying the acidic conditions they are afforded in this area.