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Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Camellia
Care at a glance
Light
Water
Humidity
Temperature
Growth
Soil
Fertiliser
Pet safety
About this plant
Camellias come from East Asia and are long-lived, reliable shrubs. Sasanquas flower in autumn, tolerate more sun and are great for hedges and espaliers. Japonicas flower in late winter and early spring with large, often double blooms and prefer more shade. Both love acidic soil and pots.
Best spots
Shaded or part-shaded balconies, courtyards, hedges, espaliers on walls and large pots.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Camellia sasanqua; C. japonica |
| Family | Theaceae |
| Origin | China & Japan |
| Plant type | Evergreen flowering shrub |
| Mature size | 1.5–4 m |
| Growth rate | Slow to moderate |
| Foliage | Glossy, dark green leaves |
| Flowers | Single to double blooms in white, pink and red |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Semi-hardwood cuttings |
Seasonal care calendar
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Buds drop before opening | Dry soil while buds were forming. Water consistently in summer and autumn. |
| Yellow leaves | Soil not acidic enough. Use camellia fertiliser. |
| Brown, rotting flowers | Petal blight. Remove fallen flowers. |
| Black sooty leaves | Scale insects. Use horticultural oil. |
| Scorched leaves | Too much afternoon sun (especially japonicas). |
Common questions
When should I prune?
Right after flowering, so next season's buds can form.
Sasanqua or japonica?
Sasanquas for sun, hedges and autumn flowers; japonicas for shade and big blooms.
Can they grow in pots?
Yes, they're excellent in pots with camellia mix.
Why do buds fall off?
Usually from dry soil in late summer when buds form.
