False Japanese Cleyera

(Ternstroemia gymnanthera)

False Japanese Cleyera (Ternstroemia gymnanthera)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Ternstroemia gymnanthera, commonly known as False Japanese Cleyera, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the understory of moist, shaded forests in Southeast Asia, particularly Japan and China. It typically grows to a height of 6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters) and a width of 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters), with a dense, rounded habit. The plant features glossy, leathery leaves that are dark green above and paler beneath. In spring and summer, it produces small, fragrant, white flowers that are not particularly showy but are followed by ornamental, red berries that persist into winter.

False Japanese Cleyera is valued for its attractive, dense foliage and its adaptability to a range of garden settings, including urban environments. It is often used as a hedge, screen, or foundation planting. This species thrives in part shade to full shade, requires medium amounts of water, and prefers well-drained soils with an acidic to neutral pH. While it is generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to leaf spot and root rot if conditions are too wet. It is also important to note that Ternstroemia gymnanthera is not related to the true Cleyera japonica, despite the common name suggesting otherwise.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 6-10 feet
  • Width: 4-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Border Plant, Hedges, Low Maintenance, Salt Tolerant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

native to the understory of moist, shaded forests in Southeast Asia, particularly Japan and China

Other Names

Common Names: Cleyera, Japanese Ternstroemia, 厚皮香

Scientific Names: , Ternstroemia gymnanthera, Ternstroemia japonica, Cleyera gymnanthera, Ternstroemia aneura, Ternstroemia fragrans, Ternstroemia mokof, Ternstroemia parvifolia, Ternstroemia japonica var. wightii, Adinandra japonica

GBIF Accepted Name: Ternstroemia gymnanthera (Wight & Arn.) Sprague