Camellia spp.

Broadleaf evergreen shrub

Plant in spring or fall; Blooms from late winter to early spring

Partial shade; prefers dappled sunlight or morning sun with afternoon shade

55–70°F (13–21°C)

Acidic, well-drained, organic-rich soil

6–9 (USDA)

Seeds germinate in 1–2 months; cuttings are preferred for propagation

Acidic (5.0–6.8)

Camellias need 1 inch of water per week during flowering and every 10 days to 2 weeks during extended dry periods; drought-tolerant

Use an acid-forming fertilizer (e.g., for azaleas or rhododendrons) with an NPK ratio around 4-8-8 in early spring and midsummer

Dense, rounded growth habit

Seeds, cuttings, layering, and grafting

6–12 ft; but some can be up to 20 ft

5–10 ft

White, pink, red, yellow, or lavender; rose-like blooms

Bees, songbirds, and other pollinators

Foundation plant, hedge, woodland garden, container gardening; can have therapeutic uses

Azaleas, rhododendrons, ferns, hostas, scillas, snowdrops, Japanese maples, mahonia, sweet box, corylopsis, and daffodils

Prune after flowering; remove dead or weak branches to maintain shape

Generally non-toxic, but seeds contain caffeine and can cause discomfort if ingested in large quantities

Scale insects, aphids, and spider mites

Camellia petal blight, root rot, leaf gall, and sooty mold

Camellias are known as the “Queen of Winter Flowers” due to their stunning blooms during the colder months