Growing Camellia

Latin Name Pronunciation: kuh-mee' lyuh  

The genus Camellia includes about 250 species of broadleaf evergreen trees and shrubs growing in acidic soils in mild-climate tropical and subtropical Eastern and Southern Asia. They grow slowly but are long-lived. Camellias bloom for several months between fall and spring. In northern areas, select a warm microclimate in your yard where plants will be protected from winter winds; avoid low spots where late frosts settle. Sudden temperature changes may cause flower buds to drop.

Light: Plant in full sun to part shade, providing protection from hot afternoon sun in warmer areas to prevent heat stress. In coldest areas, situating where winter sun does not hit directly protects plants from winterburn.

Soil: Camellias must have well-drained, consistently moist, acidic soil, with good organic content. They will not do well in high pH, alkaline soil, or saturated boggy soil, which may foster root rot. Mulch well to preserve soil moisture.

Watering: Water as needed to avoid drying out. Avoid overhead watering, which can promote fungal diseases on leaves.

Fertilizing: Compost, especially decomposed leaf compost, is ideal and may be all that is needed. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers. If needed, a slow-release granular fertilizer higher in phosphorous may be applied immediately after bloom (with a light hand) to promote flower bud formation.

Pruning: It is often not necessary to prune, although thinning of some internal branches to improve air circulation in humid climates helps prevent fungal diseases. Prune immediately after blooms have finished in late winter or early spring; flower buds form quickly on new growth.

Pests/Diseases: Generally resistant to pests and diseases unless stressed.