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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.

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.

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

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