Cleyera
Ternstroemia gymnanthera
Varieties We Bring In
Last received Mar 4, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
About Cleyera
Cleyera (Ternstroemia gymnanthera) is a glossy-leaved evergreen shrub native to East Asia, valued for its dense, rounded habit and attractive new growth that emerges bronzy-red before maturing to deep green. Small, fragrant creamy-white flowers appear in summer. Starting at $19.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Summer
- Flower Color
- White
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Acidic, Well-drained
Best planting months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Bloom season.
Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Cleyera grows best in partial shade to partial sun in NE Florida; full midday sun can scorch foliage, especially in summer heat. A location with morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal.
Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained, especially during establishment. Once established, Cleyera is moderately drought tolerant; avoid wet, poorly drained sites, which promote root rot.
Plant in moist, acidic, well-drained sandy or loamy soil. Leaves will yellow in alkaline soil — amend with sulfur if needed. Fertilize in spring with an acid-forming shrub fertilizer; Cleyera requires little ongoing maintenance.
Similar needs
Elderberry
Shares 5 of the same needs: similar light, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Piedmont Azalea
Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Saltbush
Shares 5 of the same needs: similar light, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Sweet Olive
Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Sweetshrub
Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Viburnum
Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
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Common questions
Is Cleyera a good plant for St. Augustine?
Cleyera is a shrub for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 8-10 feet × 5-6 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.