While many plants fade, die back, or go dormant during the winter months, some actually come to life in the cooler seasons. From early winter to late winter, certain blooms add much-needed color and beauty to an otherwise quiet garden. The common camellia is one of these standout plants. Keep reading for the ultimate how to grow camellia guide!
Camellia Care at a Glance
- Light: Partial shade
- Soil: Acidic, well-draining
- Water: Consistent moisture
- Bloom time: Fall to winter (varies by type)
- Zones: 6–9
History
Camellias are originally from East Asia, and many originate from Japan. These evergreen shrubs are known for their glossy leaves and vibrant blooms in shades of red, pink, and white that look similar to roses and peonies.
Camellias grow best in cold hardiness zones 6-9. The American Camellia Society has more information about camellias grown in the United States.
Camellia Varieties
For those who want to grow more than one type of camellia, there are several varieties to choose from. The two main varieties are sasanqua camellias and camellia japonica, although there are several hundred to choose from.
Sasanqua Camellias
Sasanqua camellias are also known as the camellia sasanqua. These small trees or shrubs are originally from Japan. These plants grow quickly, and their blooms can be enjoyed in the fall and winter months.
Camellia Japonica
The camellia japonica (c. japonica) is another name for Japanese camellias. These evergreen shrubs can grow up to 6-12 feet tall. The flowers can form double blooms for a full look.
How to Grow Camellia Tips
Below are some tips on how to grow the common camellia. While you can purchase camellia seeds to grow, many gardeners choose a mature plant that is already established.
Sun
Most types of camellias prefer partial shade. These plants grow better in morning sun than in the harsh afternoon sunlight. Mature camellia sasanqua plants can tolerate full sun. Camellia japonica grows best in full shade.
Soil
Camellia shrubs grow best in well-draining acidic soil with a soil pH of 5.5-6.5. These acid-loving plants grow well in organic matter, such as pine bark or oak leaf. You may occasionally want to do a soil test to make sure the pH is at the correct level.
Water
Water plants consistently, since camellias like plenty of soil moisture. It is best to water your camellias about 1-2 times a week for the first few years. Make sure there is good drainage, since the plants like moisture, but not too much.
Pests and Diseases
There are some pests and diseases you want to watch out for to keep your mature camellias healthy and last a long time for you to enjoy. Fungal diseases such as root rot are a common problem with many plants, but they are easily preventable.
Well-draining soil can help reduce root rot. If you plan to grow your camellias in a container garden, make sure the pots you use have holes for excess water to drain out of.
Insect problems include tea scale and aphids. Aphids are small green or black insects that appear on the stems or other parts of your plants. There are several ways to get rid of pests and diseases, such as insecticides and fungicides.
How to Prune Camellias
It is best to prune camellias in late spring or early summer. Most plants have completed their flowering cycle for the season at this time. You can cut back up to 50% of your plant if you want to grow it smaller. For best results, add fertilizer to encourage growth.
How to Grow Camellia FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions you may have about how to grow camellia in your garden.
Can I Plant Camellia in October?
October is a great time to plant the common camellia. The root ball has time to get settled for spring growth when planted in the fall. Young plants can be set out from late fall to early spring.
How Hard is it to Grow Camellias?
Camellia plants are easy to grow when you know what to do. If you are new to growing camellias, you may go through a period of trial and error when establishing your plants. I’ve gone through this with plenty of plants as a gardener. You may want to consider investing in several plants for this reason.
Are Camellias Better in Pots or in the Ground?
Camellias grow well in both pots and in the ground. With pots, you will need to repot your camellias in a larger container every few years to keep up with their growth. Container plants need to be watered more, since they tend to dry out more frequently than plants grown in the ground.
These are not bad things; some plants just need extra care when grown in pots. If you live in an area with a small outdoor space, container gardening may be your only option. Give your plants plenty of water with well-drained soil, and they will do fine.
Do Camellia Come Back Every Year?
Camellia plants are evergreen perennial shrubs that come back every year. A mature plant can live 50-100 or more years with the right care.
How to Grow Camellia Plants
Camellias can make a great addition to your garden if you are looking for something hardy with colorful blooms. With their glossy evergreen foliage and stunning flowers that brighten up the cooler months, they offer year-round interest and beauty. Now that you know how to grow camellia plants, you can add some to your garden collection!