Plant Profile: Ternstroemia gymnanthera

This broadleaf evergreen features an upright to rounded oval shape and is tolerant of salt spray, making it an excellent choice for coastal regions of North Carolina. It thrives in full sun to partial shade but may experience winter burn if exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods. Additionally, it does not fare well in poorly drained soils. The juvenile leaves emerge in shades of bronze to reddish, and while it blooms in the summer, the flowers are not particularly noticeable. The fruit matures in the fall but is also relatively inconspicuous. This plant is valued for its growth habit and tiered branches adorned with evergreen, blue-green leaves that appear whorled at the tips. It is commonly used as a screen, specimen plant, or in large borders, and is frequently marketed under the name Cleyera japonica.

It closely resembles and is often sold as Cleyera japonica.

Quick Identification