The Juliet Cleyera (Ternstroemia gymnanthera ‘Broody’) is an attractive evergreen shrub valued for its distinctive variegated foliage and adaptability in landscape settings. This plant offers year-round visual interest. Its mature form contributes significantly to its appeal, providing structure and color.
Characteristics of a Full Grown Juliet Cleyera
A mature Juliet Cleyera typically reaches a height of 6 to 10 feet and spreads 4 to 6 feet wide, though some sources indicate a slightly more compact mature size of 6-8 feet high by 3-4 feet wide. It develops an upright, dense, rounded, or oval growth habit. The foliage is a standout feature, with new growth emerging as a vibrant maroon or bronze-pink, which then matures to a glossy olive green with creamy white or yellow edges. While primarily grown for its foliage, the Juliet Cleyera produces inconspicuous, small white flowers in the summer, which are generally not considered a prominent ornamental feature. Berries are typically not a significant characteristic for this specific cultivar.
Growth Rate and Time to Maturity
The Juliet Cleyera exhibits a slow to moderate growth rate, growing approximately 12 inches per year under favorable conditions. While specific timelines can vary, a Juliet Cleyera will typically achieve a substantial portion of its mature size within 5 to 10 years. Factors such as climate conditions, initial plant size at planting, and overall health of the plant influence how quickly it reaches its mature form.
Cultivating Optimal Full Growth
This plant thrives in locations ranging from full sun to partial shade, though some suggest afternoon shade in hotter climates to prevent foliage burn. Well-drained soil is important, with a preference for moist, but not soggy, conditions. While it tolerates a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, it prefers a neutral to acidic pH.
Regular watering is important until the plant is well-established, which may take a few months. Once established, Juliet Cleyera becomes more tolerant of dry soil conditions, requiring less frequent irrigation. Fertilization in early spring with a balanced fertilizer, or one formulated for acidic plants, supports healthy development and robust growth. Pruning is generally not required for the plant’s health, but light shaping can be done in early spring before new growth appears to maintain a desired form or size.
Ideal Uses for Mature Juliet Cleyera
The mature size and dense, evergreen foliage of the Juliet Cleyera make it highly versatile in landscape design. Its upright and compact growth habit is suitable for creating effective privacy screens or hedges. It functions as a striking specimen plant or focal point in the garden.
It integrates well into foundation plantings, particularly for larger homes or structures where its mature height and spread fit proportionately. The Juliet Cleyera can be incorporated into mixed borders, providing year-round structure and contrasting foliage against other plants. Its adaptability also extends to container gardening, especially in regions outside its hardiness zone where it can be moved indoors during winter.