Crown Jewels Cleyera

Crown Jewels Cleyera (Ternstroemia gymnanthera 'WMN-01') is an attractive evergreen shrub known for its vibrant, multi-seasonal foliage and easy maintenance. It belongs to the tea family (Theaceae) and is often used in landscapes for its compact, rounded growth habit and colorful leaves. New growth emerges in vivid shades of burgundy or bronze, gradually maturing into deep green, offering year-round interest. The shrub typically reaches 3 to 5 feet in height and width, making it an ideal choice for foundation plantings, borders, or low hedges. It thrives in partial shade to full sun and prefers slightly acidic, well-drained soil.

In addition to its ornamental foliage, Crown Jewels Cleyera is prized for its resistance to pests and diseases, as well as its tolerance for heat and humidity—making it especially popular in southern U.S. gardens. It is also deer-resistant and relatively low-maintenance once established. While it produces small, inconspicuous flowers in late spring to early summer, the foliage remains the primary visual appeal. Gardeners often favor this cultivar for its ability to add structure and color to a landscape without requiring frequent pruning or special care.

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