Description
Ternstroemia polypetala (also called False camphor, among many other common names) is a species of flowering plant in the family Theaceae, native to the Ryukyu Islands, Taiwan, and southern Japan. It is an evergreen shrub growing to 6 m tall, with glossy, leathery leaves up to 10 cm long and 5 cm broad. It is typically found in warm temperate forests, growing in moist, humus-rich soils.
Uses & Benefits
Ternstroemia polypetala is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a houseplant. It is also used for its medicinal properties, such as treating fever, headaches, and digestive problems.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Ternstroemia polypetala has small, white flowers and small, black seeds. The seedlings are small and have narrow, light green leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Ternstroemia polypetala is a perennial flowering plant that can be propagated by division or stem cuttings. To propagate by division, divide the rootball into smaller sections and replant each section in a separate pot. To propagate by stem cuttings, take a 3-4 inch cutting from a healthy stem and place it in a moist, well-draining soil. Keep the cutting in a warm, humid environment until it develops roots.