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Camellia /kəˈmiːli.ə/

Common name: Camellia

Camellia is a genus of evergreen shrubs and small trees in the tea family, Theaceae, native to eastern and southern Asia. They are prized for their glossy dark-green foliage and large, rose-like flowers that bloom in autumn, winter, or early spring depending on the species. The genus includes Camellia sinensis, the plant whose leaves are used to make tea.

Care summary

Sun Partial shade; morning sun, afternoon shade
Water Regular, even moisture; drought-sensitive
Soil Acidic (pH 5.5–6.5), rich, well-draining
Hardiness Zones 7–9
Mature height 2–6 m (6–20 ft) at maturity
Pet safe Generally considered non-toxic

Fun facts

  • Camellias can live for hundreds of years; some in Japan and China are centuries old.
  • The camellia is the state flower of Alabama.
  • Camellias were named after the Jesuit botanist Georg Joseph Kamel, who never actually studied the plant.

Common problems

    • Keep soil evenly moist in summer
    • Mulch roots to hold steady moisture
    • Shelter plants from harsh morning sun
    • Feed with an ericaceous acid fertilizer
    • Mulch with pine needles or bark
    • Test and lower soil pH gradually
    • Scrub colonies off with soft brush
    • Spray with horticultural oil thoroughly
    • Prune to open up dense growth
    • Remove and destroy fallen blossoms
    • Replace mulch beneath infected shrubs
    • Avoid overhead watering during bloom