Common Name: Camellia
Scientific Name: Camellia spp.
Family: Theaceae (Tea family)
Type: Evergreen shrub or small tree
Origin: Eastern and Southern Asia, especially China, Japan, and Korea
Botanical Description:
Leaves:
Camellia plants have dark green, glossy, leathery leaves with finely serrated edges.
Leaves are evergreen and usually alternate on the stem.
Flowers:
Camellias produce large, showy flowers in a wide range of colors, including white, pink, red, and even variegated forms.
Flower shapes can be single, semi-double, or fully double depending on the cultivar.
Blooms appear from late fall to early spring, depending on the species and climate.
Flowers can be 3 to 5 inches wide and resemble roses or peonies.
Growth Habit:
Typically grows as a dense, rounded shrub or small tree, reaching heights of 6 to 12 feet, though some can grow taller in ideal conditions.
Growth is slow to moderate.
Fruit:
Camellias produce small, woody capsules containing seeds, but they are not typically grown for their fruit.
Growing Conditions:
Light: Partial shade to dappled sunlight; prefers morning sun and afternoon shade
Soil: Acidic, well-drained, humus-rich soil (pH 5.5–6.5)
Watering: Consistent moisture; avoid waterlogged conditions
Temperature: Prefers mild climates; some species are cold-hardy, but others are frost-sensitive
Humidity: Thrives in moderate to high humidity
Uses:
Ornamental: Widely cultivated for their beautiful and long-lasting blooms in gardens, borders, and containers.
Cultural: Highly valued in East Asian cultures; symbol of love, admiration, and perfection.
Tea Production: Camellia sinensis is the species used to produce green, black, and oolong tea.
Cut Flowers: Used in floral arrangements due to their rose-like appearance and variety of colors.
Popular Species:
Camellia japonica – Most widely grown ornamental species with large, colorful flowers; blooms in winter or spring.
Camellia sasanqua – More sun-tolerant and blooms earlier in the season (late fall to early winter).
Camellia sinensis – Tea plant; smaller flowers, primarily grown for leaf harvest.
Camellia reticulata – Produces very large flowers; popular in China and in specialized gardens.