![20240407_113342.jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmWDXNV2Kd415o4nZzsmpxRJNZoGB4B3dy2JzFGPK5MW1W/20240407_113342.jpg) Ternstroemia gymnanthera, also known as Japanese Ternstroemia or False Japanese Cleyera, is a captivating evergreen shrub native to forests and thickets in eastern and southeastern Asia. It brings year-round beauty to your landscape with its combination of attractive foliage and subtle blooms. **Leaves:** The star of the show on Ternstroemia gymnanthera is undoubtedly its leaves. These beauties are: * **Leathery and lustrous:** Imagine rich, dark green leaves that gleam in the sunlight. Their texture is smooth and substantial, adding a touch of elegance to your garden. * **Shaped for interest:** The leaves are typically narrow-oblong to ovate-oblong, ranging from 2.5 to 4 inches long. They come to a blunt point at the tip and have a wedge-shaped base. * **Crowded clusters:** While technically alternate, the leaves tend to cluster at the tips of the stems, creating a pseudo-whorl effect that adds a touch of density and visual interest. * **Seasonal color change:** A delightful surprise awaits you in spring! New growth emerges with a reddish hue, adding a vibrant contrast to the mature dark green leaves. Some varieties, like 'Carolina Sunset', even boast splashes of yellow, creating a truly stunning display. In colder climates, the foliage may take on a subtle bronze tint during the winter months. **Beyond the leaves:** While the leaves are the main attraction, Ternstroemia gymnanthera offers a few other visual treats: * **Delicate flowers:** In late spring to early summer, the plant produces small, white to yellowish flowers with five petals. They are typically borne singly or in clusters of two or three, adding a touch of fragrance and dainty beauty. * **Berry-like fruits:** Following the flowers, Ternstroemia gymnanthera produces round, pea-sized fruits. These start green and mature to a reddish-orange color in fall, providing a pop of color and potentially attracting some feathered visitors. **Overall, Ternstroemia gymnanthera is a versatile and low-maintenance shrub that offers a combination of year-round evergreen interest and seasonal highlights. Its beautiful leaves and delicate blooms make it a valuable addition to any garden.** Ref.: - https://gemini.google.com/

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