Botanical names
Camellia sp.
Camellia sasanqua
Camellia japonica
Camellia sinensis
Camellia hiemalis
Common name
Camellia
Camellia plant description
Revered for their dark, glossy green foliage and stunning floral displays, Camellias have been widely hybridised to produce a vast number of readily available cultivars.
Flowering from Autumn through to Spring, blooms are available in white, pink, red and any combination of these colours. Quite often blooms can be variegated, displaying a mixture of colours on the same blooms.
These evergreen shrubs range in size from 1 metre in height to potentially 5 metres high, depending on the species. Camellias are long lived but are usually quite slow growing and can take 2-3 years before their first flush of flowers.
Always choose your Camellia when in flower to ensure your selection is correct.
Climate
Cool, mild and temperate areas with minimal frost
Plant cultivation & care
Camellias need a slightly acid, well drained and aerated soil which is rich in organic matter. Heavy, soggy soils will result in poor growth and root rot… a death sentence for many plants.
Most varieties, especially Camellia japonica, prefer part shade / filtered sun. Camellia sasanqua is better suited for positions in direct sun. Always check labels and do your research before selecting a particular plant.
Keep plants well mulched and well watered during the warmer months (without waterlogging them). Organic fertiliser or Camellia/Azalea food should be applied once flowering has finished (Spring – Summer).
Propagate from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late Spring / early Summer.
Plant use
Hedges, shrubberies, espaliers, pots and privacy screens. Camellias have very similar care requirements as Gardenias, Azaleas and Roses so grouping these plants together in the garden can assist when maintaining them.
Camellia sinensis is the plant from which tea is obtained.
Pruning
Tip pruning can be done year round. Removing the upper growth buds promotes a bushier growth habit which is especially important for young shrubs.
Old Camellias can be given a new lease on life with a substantial prune. If doing this, always ensure you cut above a leaf or leaf bud to eliminate die back.
Pests & diseases
Sunburn if planted in a position with too much sun and root rot if soil is too wet. Susceptible to all the usual suspects… Aphids, Thrips, Scale, Mealybugs…
