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cleyera

Scientific Name: Cleyera

Family: Theaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Japanese Cleyera: A Versatile Evergreen

Cleyera shrubs, particularly Ternstroemia gymnanthera and Cleyera japonica, are popular choices for gardens due to their attractive foliage, neat shape, and relatively low-maintenance nature.

Considerations for Pets

  • The plant contains sap.

Considerations for Children

  • The plant contains sap.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Scientific Name: Cleyera japonica (Japanese Cleyera), also frequently referred to as Ternstroemia gymnanthera.
  • Family: Pentaphylacaceae
  • Synonyms: Mentions include Ternstroemia gymnanthera f. Cleyera gymna, Cleyera bolleana, Cleyera revoluta, Cleyera skutchii, Cleyera tacanensis, Eroteum theoides, Eurya panamensis, and Eurya theoides.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Cleyera japonica is native to warm regions of Japan, Korea, mainland China, Taiwan, Myanmar, Nepal, and northern India.
  • It thrives in humid forests.

Morphology and Growth Habits

  • Cleyera can grow as an evergreen shrub or small tree, reaching heights of 10-15 feet, with a spread of 8-10 feet. Some varieties can reach 20 feet in height.
  • It exhibits an upright, billowing growth habit.
  • The foliage is dense and glossy, with new growth emerging in shades of bronze, red, or maroon before maturing to dark green.
  • Some cultivars, like 'Bigfoot', are known for their fast growth and larger size.

Cultivars

  • Several cultivars are mentioned, including:
    • 'Sotall' (Bigfoot™ Cleyera): Known for its fast growth and suitability as a tall hedge.
    • 'Conthery' (Bronze Beauty™ Cleyera): A compact variety with rich bronze new foliage.
    • 'Contherann' (LeAnn™ Cleyera): Notable for its beautiful maroon new foliage and uniform growth.

Growing Conditions

  • Cleyera generally prefers full sun to shade.
  • It is noted to require acidic soil for optimal growth and may dislike hot, dry, sunny afternoons.

Quirky Facts

  • Despite being different species, Ternstroemia gymnanthera and Cleyera japonica are often confused in the nursery trade.
  • Cleyera is sometimes mistaken for Red Tip Photinia due to its reddish new growth.

Further Resources

  • Monrovia provides details and information on their Cleyera cultivars.
  • Dave's Garden offers tips and ideas from a community of gardeners.
  • The PLANTS Database (USDA, NRCS, National Plant Data Center) is a reference for Cleyera.