Japanese camellia (Camellia japonica) Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses

Young plants that haven't been established yet require regular watering. Mature Japanese camellia is relatively drought-tolerant, but it should be regularly watered during prolonged periods of drought. Water the plant when the soil feels significantly dry. Water thoroughly and let the soil dry out between waterings.

Fertilization

Japanese camellia can be fertilized in spring after the flowering and again in midsummer. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Depending on the soil type, the age of the plant, and the plant's nutritional needs, you can apply additional fertilizer that will target the specific issue. Otherwise, japanese camellia doesn't have any particular fertilization needs.

Pruning

Trim the dead, diseased, overgrown branches in winter.

Soil

Sand, Loam, Clay, Acidic, Neutral

Potting Suggestions

Potted japanese camellia can be repotted every spring, and branches and leaves can be pruned during repotting.

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Japanese camellia

Water

Every 1-2 weeks

Sunlight

Partial sun

Hardiness Zones

8 to 10

Planting Time

Spring, Early summer, Fall, Early winter

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Questions About Japanese camellia

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Japanese camellia?

Your Japanese camellia will not be too picky about how you choose to water it. As such, you can use just about any common watering tool to moisten this plant’s soil. Watering cans, hoses, and even cups will work just fine when it is time to water your Japanese camellia. Regardless of which watering tool you use, you should typically apply the water directly to the soil. In doing so, you should ensure that you moisten all soil areas equally to give all parts of the root system the water it needs. It can help to use filtered water, as tap water can contain particles that are harmful to plants. It is also beneficial to use water that is at or slightly above room temperature, as colder or hotter water can be somewhat shocking to the Japanese camellia. However, the Japanese camellia usually responds well to any kind of water you give it.

What should I do if I water my Japanese camellia too much or too little?

For outdoor plants, especially newly planted plants or plant seedlings, they can be prone to lack of watering. Remember that you need to keep watering enough for a few months when the tree is small or just planted. This is because once the roots are established, Japanese camellia can rely on rain most of the time.

When your Japanese camellia is planted in pots, overwatering is often more likely to.When you accidentally overwater your Japanese camellia, you should be prepared to remedy the situation immediately. First, you should stop watering your plant right away to minimize the effect of your overwatering. After, you should consider removing your Japanese camellia from its pot to inspect its roots. If you find that none of the roots have developed root rot, it may be permissible to return your plant to its container. If you do discover signs of root rot, then you should trim away any roots that have been affected. You may also want to apply a fungicide to prevent further damage. Lastly, you should repot your Japanese camellia in soil that is well-draining. In the case of an underwatered Japanese camellia, simply water this plant more frequently.

Underwatering is often an easy fix. If you underwater, the plant's leaves will tend to droop and dry out and fall off, and the leaves will quickly return to fullness after sufficient watering. Please correct your watering frequency as soon as underwatering occurs.

How often should I water my Japanese camellia?

Most plants that grow naturally outdoors can be allowed to grow normally with rainfall. If your area lacks rainfall, consider giving your plants adequate watering every 2 weeks during the spring and fall. More frequent watering is needed in summer. In winter, when growth becomes slower and plants need less water, water more sparingly. Throughout the winter, you may not give it additional watering at all. If your Japanese camellia is young or newly planted, then you should water more frequently to help it establish, and mature and grow up to have more adaptable and drought tolerant plants.

For potted plants, there are two main ways that you can determine how often to water your Japanese camellia. The first way is to set a predetermined watering schedule. If you choose this route, you should plan to water this plant about once every week or once every other week. However, this approach may not always work as it does not consider the unique conditions of the growing environment for your Japanese camellia .

Your watering frequency can also change depending on the season. For instance, a predetermined watering schedule will likely not suffice during summer when this plant's water needs are highest. An alternative route is to set your watering frequency based on soil moisture. Typically, it is best to wait until the first two to four inches of soil, usually ⅓ to ½ depth of the pots, have dried out entirely before you give more water.

How much water does my Japanese camellia need?

When it comes time to water your Japanese camellia, you may be surprised to find that this plant does not always need a high volume of water. Instead, if only a few inches of soil have dried since your last watering, you can support healthy growth in the Japanese camellia by giving it about five to ten ounces of water every time you water. You can also decide your water volume based on soil moisture. As mentioned above, you should note how many inches of soil have dried out between waterings. A surefire way to make sure your Japanese camellia gets the moisture it needs is to supply enough water to moisten all the soil layers that became dry since the last time you watered. If more than half of the soil has become dry, you should consider giving more water than usual. In those cases, continue adding water until you see excess water draining from your pot’s drainage holes.

If your Japanese camellia is planted in an area that gets plenty of rain outdoors, it may not need additional watering. When the Japanese camellia is young or just getting established, make sure it gets 1-2 inches of rain per week. As it continues to grow and establish, it can survive entirely on rainwater and only when the weather is hot and there is no rainfall at all for 2-3 weeks, then consider giving your Japanese camellia a full watering to prevent them from suffering stress.

How can I tell if i'm watering my Japanese camellia enough?

Overwatering is a far more common problem for the Japanese camellia, and there are several signs you should look for when this occurs. Generally, an overwatered Japanese camellia will have yellowing leaves and may even drop some leaves. Also, overwatering can cause the overall structure of your plant to shrivel and may also promote root rot. On the other hand, an underwatered Japanese camellia will also begin to wilt. It may also display leaves that are brown or brittle to the touch. Whether you see signs of overwatering or underwatering, you should be prepared to intervene and restore the health of your Japanese camellia.

How can I water my Japanese camellia at different growth stages?

When the Japanese camellia is very young, such as when it is in a seedling stage, you will need to give it more water than you would if it were at a mature age. During the early stages of this plant’s life, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist to encourage root development. The same is true for any Japanese camellia that you have transplanted to a new growing location. Also, the Japanese camellia can develop showy flowers and fruits when you give them the correct care. If your Japanese camellia is in a flowering or fruiting phase, you will likely need to give a bit more water than you usually would to support these plant structures.

How can I water my Japanese camellia through the seasons?

The seasonal changes will affect how often you water your Japanese camellia. Mainly, during the hottest summer months, you will likely need to increase how much you water this plant, especially if it grows in an area that receives ample sunlight. Strong summer sunlight can cause soil to dry out much faster than usual, meaning that you’ll need to water more frequently. By contrast, your Japanese camellia will need much less water during the winter, as it will not be in an active growing phase. During winter, you can get by with watering once every 2 to 3 weeks or sometimes not at all. For those growing this plant indoors, you should be somewhat wary of appliances such as air conditioners, which can cause your plant to dry out more quickly, which also calls for more frequent watering.

What's the difference between watering my Japanese camellia indoors vs outdoors?

In some cases, your Japanese camellia may not need any supplemental watering when it grows outside and will survive on rainwater alone. However, if you live in an area of little to no rain, you should water this plant about every two weeks. If you belong to the group of people who live out of this plant's natural hardiness zone, you should grow it indoors. In an indoor setting, you should monitor your plant's soil as it can dry out more quickly when it is in a container or when it is exposed to HVAC units such as air conditioners. Those drying factors will lead you to water this plant a bit more often than if you grew it outdoors.

Is pruning necessary for my Japanese camellia?

Before your Japanese camellia hedge begins taking over the sidewalk, or your hanging basket Japanese camellias start to look scraggly, it is a good idea to think about pruning. Without proper maintenance, Japanese camellia may grow rapidly and uncontrollably, crowding out other plants. If you decide to include Japanese camellia in your garden or landscaping plan, you should monitor its growth carefully and have a plan for pruning. Pruning is as important for the Japanese camellia as it is for any other ornamental plant species that you may choose to grow in your garden. If you prune this plant properly, you can enhance its overall health while preserving its most showy ornamental features. With that said, you cannot expect to reap those benefits if you don’t know when and how to prune this species. In fact, improper pruning can cause you to remove the season’s blooms, detracting significantly from the Japanese camellia’s beauty. Even if you live in a cooler area or only plan to grow Japanese camellia in pots or hanging baskets, regular pruning can encourage blooming and keep your plants healthy and vigorous.

When is the best time to prune my Japanese camellia?

As Japanese camellia blooms earlier than normal plants, pruning should also be earlier. What you should do instead is wait until the late spring or early summer to prune if you want to prune your Japanese camellia on a large scale. The ideal time for pruning takes place at the end or just after this plant’s bloom period. Also, you should avoid pruning late in summer and into fall, pruning at this time may affect the flowering of plants the following year. Additionally, you may want to trim the plants throughout the growing season to encourage blooming. You can also prune at any time if there is any yellowing or diseased foliage.

How can I prune my Japanese camellia?

For your major pruning, use sharp pruning sheers that will make clean cuts to avoid damaging your plants. Make each cut at a 45° angle to encourage healthy new growth. Remove any dead or decayed stems first, cutting them off just above the damaged section or cutting them completely to the ground. Next, consider the desired height and shape of your Japanese camellia, and then prune accordingly. To control the size of your Japanese camellia, you can cut back as much as one third of its height and girth, and it is best done by pruning immediately after flowering Finally, you may prefer to just trim off dead or damaged portions of the plant, including deadheading spent flowers, to keep it looking its best. This can be done at any time of year. Diseased or damaged stems should be cut right at the soil line and removed completely. Blooms should be cut off just below the flower head.

What should I do after pruning my Japanese camellia?

Japanese camellia is generally tolerant of limited water and may become mildewy with too much water. Right after pruning is a good time to water and fertilizer though, to encourage new growth and blooming. However, care needs to be taken to avoid wounded areas when watering to avoid fungal infestation of the plant through fresh wounds. When you are ready to dispose of sections of the plant that you removed during pruning, there are two important things to keep in mind. Japanese camellia leaves or branches found to be diseased need to be trimmed off and destroyed away from the plant. Do not used as compost material. Wherever you dispose of the trimmings, remember that Japanese camellia roots and spreads easily. Be careful that your trimmings do not inadvertently produce new, unwanted Japanese camellia.

What are some tips for pruning my Japanese camellia?

From hedges to containers, in any landscape or garden, annual pruning and regular trims can encourage Japanese camellia produce beautiful blooms and remain healthy for many years. For your major pruning, use sharp pruning sheers that will make clean cuts to avoid damaging your plants. Make each cut at a 45° angle to encourage healthy new growth. As you are pruning your Japanese camellia, step back occasionally to check the appearance of the plant to make sure it has the shape you want and that you are pruning it symmetrically. Try not to prune heavily at flowering time, just the dried flowers need to be pruned back as this will affect flowering. A useful approach is to remove only the longer branches and sucker shoots, leaving the blooms closer to the primary stems intact. Finally, as you prune, be on the lookout for mold or mildew. Japanese camellia is susceptible to fungal or bacterial and you will want to address this problem, removing molded or fungal(bacterial) sections to avoid further damage to your Japanese camellia.

What is the optimal temperature for Japanese camellia?

Colder temperatures can affect plants since they have the same temperature as the air around them. When they are exposed to the sun, they can start to get warm again, but this is not the case during winter. The temperature range for the Japanese camellia is often 70~85℉(21~30℃). They might tolerate 20~30℉(-6~0℃) even 15℉(-10℃), but not for long since this can result in frost damage. Maximum temperatures should be around 70~85℉(21~30℃), but make sure that you spray them with water from time to time and give them some shade to prevent wilting.

Should I adjust the temperature for Japanese camellia during different growing phases?

Do some research and make sure that the temperature is right when growing Japanese camellia. Some growers might consider decreasing the plants' thermostats during the growing season to reduce HVAC costs. However, it's vital to understand that the temperature can affect the flowering, pest management, and quality of the plants.

There will be a temperature point where the Japanese camellia will stop growing, and this can happen during the winter when some species might go into a dormant state. The base temperature becomes warmer when the season changes and the Japanese camellia can grow faster. The species that are naturally growing in warm habitats have higher optimum temperatures when you compare them to the ones that thrive in a cooler climate.

When the seeds of Japanese camellia are exposed to cool temperatures, this can cause a decrease in uniformity and delays. You might also want to lower the temperature during flowering but not at other phases. Cooler temperatures at night will also require less water, so adjust the irrigation as needed.

How can I keep Japanese camellia warm in cold seasons?

Stop fertilizing the plant to avoid new growth and allow the old ones to become hardy. This way, they can endure colder temperature when it begins to drop. To keep them warm, you can build structures around the Japanese camellia like cages or trellises. There are also options to use heat mats that can gently warm the soil since they can consistently maintain an ideal temperature range for the Japanese camellia.

How can I save Japanese camellia from temperature damage?

During winter, you can protect the Japanese camellia from frost by covering it with cloths, tarps, burlaps, sheets, or plastic buckets. Make sure to keep them down so they continue to act as insulators and the wind will not blow them away. However, ensure that the plastic sheets or burlap covers should not touch any part of the fruit or foliage, or the cold temperatures can transfer to the material and cause burns. When the temperatures begin to rise during the daytime, remove the covers.

Should I adjust the temperature for Japanese camellia in different seasons?

When growing the Japanese camellia in spring, you might want to increase humidity since the air temperature tends to be cooler at this time. A dry temperature can be a stressful growing environment for various species, which can help. If summer arrives, the large cover of the greenhouse and the warm temperature will mean that there will be a higher humidity level in the air. Some signs to look for are the condensation that is often found on the walls of the greenhouse, and this can cause issues with pollination and the development of infections when the water begins to fall on the leaves. Make adjustments according to the temperature and do some spraying during the hotter days of the year.

What damage will Japanese camellia suffer if the temperature is too high/low?

Generally, the first cold snap can destroy the Japanese camellia and others might go into a dormant state when the temperature is low. Some plants can get chilled when the temperatures range from 20~30℉(-6~0℃). They can freeze when the temperature begins to drop below 32℉(0℃). Those species that hide most of their parts under the soil might lose their structures above ground, but they can recover in spring. Some of the associated issues with too low temperatures are the lack of availability of resources like water, and nutrients, and those subtropical plants can suffer when the temperature reaches below 20℉(-6℃). The plants can also get damaged because of extreme heat stress when it's too high. This can reduce the transpiration rate that can affect the growth and productivity of Japanese camellia.

What tips and cautions should I keep in mind when it comes to temperature for Japanese camellia?

You need to cover the plants at night since these can add about 5 degrees more to protect the species from frost and freezing temperatures. The cloth rows can work well as blankets and ensure that there are no openings where the heat could escape.

When using the covers, avoid the plastic from touching the foliage because this can cause the Japanese camellia to freeze. Remember to keep the covers during the day and stop using heat pads during the summer. It will always be worth the effort to protect the cold-intolerant plants from freezing temperatures to help them survive.

How can I keep Japanese camellia warm without a heat pad?

If you prefer not to use a heat pad, bring the Japanese camellia inside, especially if it's freezing outdoors. During spring, consider the ones you need to bring indoors and plant them in moveable pots and containers.

How can I provide Japanese camellia with an adequate temperature condition?

Most often, the ones caring for the Japanese camellia will grow them in greenhouses. This is because they can provide adequate temperature in these areas that won't affect the photosynthesis process of a specific process.

Some install the proper HVAC systems to control the temperatures of Japanese camellia. This can handle many species' cooling and heating needs, especially during the summer and winter. They generally place the cooling or heating pad under the plants rather than above to achieve their desired temperatures.

If outdoors, you can protect the Japanese camellia from frost by covering it with cloths, tarps, burlaps, sheets, or plastic buckets.

Under what conditions should I stop adjusting the temperature for Japanese camellia?

Heat mats are often left on Japanese camellia to set the temperatures at a more consistent level. When the weather becomes warmer during the day, you can remove them, especially if the species are exposed to the sun. Put the pads away once the plants are established and when they start growing flowers and fruits.

Why do I need to fertilize my Japanese camellia?

You need to fertilize a Japanese camellia for a few important reasons. The most obvious of these reasons is that fertilizer will help your Japanese camellia produce lovely blooms. Fertilizing in early spring is one of the best ways to ensure that your Japanese camellia has excellent flowers during that season.

Fertilizer also gives your Japanese camellia plenty of energy that it can store in the ground during its dormant growth phases. Giving your Japanese camellia some extra nutrients during the fall planting process or during the late spring will help your Japanese camellia hold more energy to use once active growth resumes.

When is the best time to fertilize my Japanese camellia?

Timing is crucial when it comes to fertilizing Japanese camellia. If you use fertilizer too early while the Japanese camellia is still dormant at this time. This fertilizer cannot be used effectively and will be washed away by rainwater, causing waste and pollution. The first application of fertilizer should be applied in the early spring. Continue fertilizing once a month until early summer.

When should I avoid fertilizing my Japanese camellia?

Avoid giving Japanese camellia a fertilizer with too much nitrogen, since this can lead to development of plenty of leaves but not many blooms. Look for fertilizer with a lower level of nitrogen compared to other nutrients.

Do not fertilize after the early autumn, which can cause too much growth just before winter. Also, Japanese camellia should not be fertilized during hot and dry times of year, since dry soil does not deliver fertilizer as effectively as moist soil. Fertilizing at this time can also stimulate growth which in turn needs more water that may not be available. It is best to keep fertilizer for earlier in the season when temperatures are cooler.

Finally, remember that Japanese camellia can absorb fertilizer that has been applied to nearby plants or lawns, so be cautious about inadvertently giving tree/shurb a double-dose of fertilizer.

What type of fertilizer does my Japanese camellia need?

The ideal fertilizer for a Japanese camellia is one that has a relatively balanced mix of the three main plant nutrients, with slightly higher amounts of phosphorus. Alternatively, some gardeners choose to improve their Japanese camellia 's soil by adding organic materials such as compost, worm castings, and manure. Some experienced gardeners will supplement 1-2 times with water-soluble fertilizers containing phosphorus when the flower buds start to appear. This will help the flowers develop better and allow them to grow larger and bloom longer.

Fertilizers can come in many forms, and most of these forms will work well for your Japanese camellia. However, some of the best fertilizers for Japanese camellia come in either a liquid or a powdered form. Regardless of which you use, you should ensure that you dilute your fertilizer and apply it while watering your Japanese camellia.

How do I fertilize my Japanese camellia?

Always follow directions for the specific type of fertilizer and do research on how to use it for the Japanese camellia you are growing. It is important not to over-fertilize your Japanese camellia, so determining the correct amount to use is crucial. The usual rule of thumb is to use the age of the tree (if known) or the diameter of the trunk to understand how much fertilizer should be used. Estimate a one-tenth of a pound of fertilizer per year or per inch of trunk, with a maximum of one pound.

Granular fertilizers and organic fertilizers such as blood meal are applied by sprinkling the substance around the base of the tree all the way to the drip line (the space below the farthest-reaching branches) but do not let fertilizer come in contact with the trunk. Over time, the granules break down and filter into the soil to be absorbed into the roots. After fertilizing, spread an inch-deep layer of compost around the base of the tree and water thoroughly.

What happens if I fertilize my Japanese camellia too much?

It is far better to under-fertilize than over-fertilize, since you can always add more but you cannot easily take away excess fertilizer. Over-fertilizing your Japanese camellia may cause brown leaf tips and edges, yellowing, wilting leaves, and possibly a visible crust of fertilizer salts on the surface of the soil around the tree. This condition is called fertilizer burn and results from too many accumulated salts in the plant’s cells. If excess nitrogen is the issue, the Japanese camellia will produce a lot of leaves but won’t grow much flowers since nitrogen supports foliage growth.

If you have overfertilized, you could try removing the top layer of soil under the Japanese camellia to remove the most concentrated area of fertilizer. Then flush the area by watering heavily to try to get rid of fertilizer around the roots.

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More About How-Tos

Explore 5 of plant how-tos on Feng shui direction, Water, Lighting, Temperature, Transplant spacing, etc.

Feng shui direction

South

Japanese camellia is considered a symbol of love and longevity, which can harmoniously enhance the energy flow in one's living space. When placed in the South direction, it is believed to amplify the richness of fire element, therefore supporting growth and passion in various aspects of one's life. This compatibility, however, might vary based on personal practices and beliefs in Feng Shui.

Water

Every 1-2 weeks

Japanese camellia originates from environments with rainfall, preferring consistent moisture. Overwatering risks root rot and other issues.Water only when topsoil feels dry, ensuring even distribution.

Lighting

Partial sun

The japanese camellia prefers steady, yet not overwhelming sun exposure. While it can endure varying levels of light conditions, including significant shade and intense sun, its optimal growth is achieved under moderate sun conditions, similar to its native habitat. Both excessive sunlight and minimal exposure may hamper its vitality.

Temperature

0 to 35 ℃

Japanese camellia has a preferred temperature range of 59 to 95 ℉ (15 to 35 ℃). It is native to regions with a temperate and humid climate, thriving in temperatures between 50 and 80 ℉ (10 and 27 ℃). During winter, it can tolerate short periods of below-freezing temperatures, but prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can damage the plant.

Transplant spacing

10-15 feet

The perfect time to transplant japanese camellia is during mid-spring to early summer, when the plant establishes roots effectively. Choose a location with well-draining soil and partial shade. Gently loosen the root ball while transplanting to ensure successful growth.

Field pumpkin are most commonly seen as decorations throughout the autumn and during the Halloween holiday, when they are carved and used as traditional jack-o'-lanterns. While the taste of field pumpkin flesh may not be ideal, eating the seeds after toasting them with a bit of salt can be a delicious treat!

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Japanese camellia based on 10 million real cases

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

Solutions: In minor cases of brown spot, there isn’t any need to treat the disease. However, if much of the foliage is affected and defoliation occurs, the plant will benefit from getting rid of the infection. It is recommended to start by applying organic treatment options, working up to the more potent synthetic, chemical fungicides if necessary. Organic options won’t kill the fungus, but will prevent it from spreading. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid soap in a gallon of water. Using a spray bottle, spray on tops and bottoms of leaves until the mixture drips off. Repeat every two weeks until existing spots stop enlarging and new spots no longer appear. Spray a copper-based fungicidal soap on the leaves, coating the top and bottom leaf surfaces. Reapply as directed on the product label. Copper penetrates the leaf surface and prevents germination of spores so the fungus cannot spread. Apply an all-purpose fungicide to the entire plant, following the label instructions carefully.

Petal blight

Bacterial infections can cause flowers to become soft and rotten.

Solutions: Like other fungal diseases, the progression of petal blight is extremely difficult to stop and impossible to reverse once it infects a plant. The best course of action is to remove all damaged flowers immediately and dispose of them entirely. Do not put them in the compost pile, where spores could grow and spread.

Nutrient deficiencies

A lack of nutrients will cause a widespread yellowing of the leaves. The yellowing may begin at the base or top of the plant.

Solutions: There are several easy ways to remedy the nutrient deficiencies in soils. Use a water-soluble fertilizer. Fertilizers will include most or all of the macro and micro-nutrients the plants need to thrive. Adding some fertilizer to the soil will make those nutrients available and can combat deficiencies. Regularly apply organic fertilizer pellets. Organic fertilizers such as animal manures and bonemeal can supply plants with all the nutrients that they need to grow strong and healthy. Apply compost. Though not as finely tuned as artificial fertilizer, compost can nevertheless be rich in important nutrients and should be applied to the soil regularly. Apply nutrients via foliar application. In addition to supplementing the soil with nutrients, foliar fertilizer can be applied directly to the plant's leaves. Nutrients offered via foliar application are often taken up even quicker than those put in the soil, so the foliar application can be great for swiftly addressing specific deficiencies.

Yellow spot

Leaf spot can show up as yellow or white spots on the leaves.

Solutions: Diseases Fungicides can prevent the transmission of spores, but they may not treat the established infection. The first step is removing and disposing of all infected plant parts. Then apply recommended chemicals. For bacterial infections, apply a spray containing copper or streptomycin. For fungal infections, consult the local cooperative extension for recommendations on which fungicides will work best. Nutrient deficiency Apply a liquid fertilizer via foliar application to fix the deficiency quickly. Follow label directions regarding dosing instructions and application notes, such as not using before the rain or when temperatures are out of the recommended range. Incorrect watering Determine the water requirements for your specific plant, and follow accordingly. Some plants like consistently moist soil, and others like the soil to dry out slightly before being watered. Pests Thoroughly apply an insecticidal soap, an organic product like neem oil, or an appropriate chemical insecticide to the plant.

Leaf Weevils

Leaf Weevils are insects that feed on the leaves of plants.

Solutions: Leaf Weevils are relatively easy to control once their presence is discovered. Here’s what to do: Spray the foliage with an insecticide Place sticky traps around the lower trunks of fruit trees and other woody plants. Weevils can’t fly, and have to crawl up the plants when they emerge from the soil. Dig into the soil around plants with a garden fork and remove and dispose of any larvae. Let chickens roam around the garden, as they love to feed on weevil larvae.

Anthracnose

Anthracnose causes grey-brown spots with black margins on leaves and stems.

Solutions: For less serious cases when only a few leaves are affected, complete the following: Prune affected leaves. Using pruning shears, remove leaves that have spots. Dispose of these leaves to avoid spreading the disease to other plants. Clear debris. To stop the spread of disease, remove debris and weeds from around plants. For serious cases when many leaves are infected with large splotches: Apply a fungicide. Fungicides won't cure current infections, but they will prevent anthracnose from spreading to uninfected tissue. Apply a fungicide before a dry period following product instructions. Products containing copper diammonia diacetate are most likely to be effective.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Woods in hills, coast

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Shrub

Flower Color

Red

White

Pink

Cream

Bloom Time

Spring, Late winter

Leaf Color

Green

Name story

Common camellia

The latin name Camellia is evolved from the name of the Moravian botanist, Joseph Kamel ('Camellus'). This plant is the most common species of Camellia, so it is called the common camellia.

Rose of winter

When most of the flowers are still escaping from the cold winter, they have already entered the budding phase. As the flower resembles rose under harsh conditions, it is being known as the rose of winter.

Symbolism

Passion, desire, a courageous death

Usages

Artistic Value

Chinese poets left behind many poems praising the Japanese Camellia

Garden Use

Japanese camellia is an evergreen woody tree or shrub commonly found in gardens. It is prized for its rich foliage and long-lasting glorious blooms. It has dense foliage and is often planted as a shade-providing flowering screen. Japanese camellia is often used in Japanese-style or Pollinator gardens. Plant Crocuses, Japanese Spurge, or Tulips for color contrast.

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Heathers and allies

Family

Tea

Genus

Camellias

Species

Japanese camellia

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Another name for pohutukawa (Metrosideros excelsa) is an evergreen tree native to New Zealand with showy flowers that look like crimson bottlebrushes. If you take good care of it, this tree will last ten years.

Spring

Pohutukawa

Mandacaru is a spiny flowering succulent tree that has no leaves. In spring, the blossoms bloom at dusk and wither by the morning. In the past, it has been used for timber and construction or feed for livestock at times of drought; now, it can be used as a living fence or as an ornamental.

Summer

Mandacaru

Plant Collection Most Common Shrub Laurustinus See More Laurustinus (Viburnum tinus) is a flowering shrub native to the Mediterranean region. It is cultivated as an ornamental plant and it often adorns winter gardens. When little else is growing during cold days of winter, Laurustinus produces numerous clusters of tiny white flowers. Add to My GardenContinue reading “Most Common Shrub”

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12 Evergreen Flowering Plants to Add to Your Garden

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Plant Collection Best Perennial Plant to Grow China rose See More The China rose (Rosa chinensis) is a Southwest China native. The plant has been cultivated for so long that it has become hard to tell the difference between wild and cultivated varieties. With medium-sized clusters of flowers and a long blooming season, it isContinue reading “Best Perennial Plant to Grow”

Most Common Shrub

Plant Collection Most Common Shrub China rose See More The China rose (Rosa chinensis) is a Southwest China native. The plant has been cultivated for so long that it has become hard to tell the difference between wild and cultivated varieties. With medium-sized clusters of flowers and a long blooming season, it is easy toContinue reading “Most Common Shrub”

Trim the dead, diseased, overgrown branches in winter.

Most Common Subshrub

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Japanese camellia

Camellia japonica

Also known as: Rose of winter

Water

Every 1-2 weeks

Sunlight

Partial sun

Care Guide for Japanese camellia

Water

Fertilization

Pruning

Soil

Sand, Loam, Clay, Acidic, Neutral

Potting Suggestions

Potted japanese camellia can be repotted every spring, and branches and leaves can be pruned during repotting.

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Questions About Japanese camellia

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Japanese camellia?

What should I do if I water my Japanese camellia too much or too little?

How often should I water my Japanese camellia?

How much water does my Japanese camellia need?

How can I tell if i'm watering my Japanese camellia enough?

How can I water my Japanese camellia at different growth stages?

How can I water my Japanese camellia through the seasons?

What's the difference between watering my Japanese camellia indoors vs outdoors?

Is pruning necessary for my Japanese camellia?

When is the best time to prune my Japanese camellia?

How can I prune my Japanese camellia?

What should I do after pruning my Japanese camellia?

What are some tips for pruning my Japanese camellia?

How many hours of sunlight does Japanese camellia need to grow?

What will happen if Japanese camellia doesn’t get enough sunlight?

What will happen if Japanese camellia gets too much sunlight?

What is the optimal temperature for Japanese camellia?

Should I adjust the temperature for Japanese camellia during different growing phases?

How can I keep Japanese camellia warm in cold seasons?

How can I save Japanese camellia from temperature damage?

Should I adjust the temperature for Japanese camellia in different seasons?

What damage will Japanese camellia suffer if the temperature is too high/low?

What tips and cautions should I keep in mind when it comes to temperature for Japanese camellia?

How can I keep Japanese camellia warm without a heat pad?

How can I provide Japanese camellia with an adequate temperature condition?

Under what conditions should I stop adjusting the temperature for Japanese camellia?

Why do I need to fertilize my Japanese camellia?

When is the best time to fertilize my Japanese camellia?

When should I avoid fertilizing my Japanese camellia?

What type of fertilizer does my Japanese camellia need?

How do I fertilize my Japanese camellia?

What happens if I fertilize my Japanese camellia too much?

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More About How-Tos

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Japanese camellia based on 10 million real cases

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

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Petal blight

Bacterial infections can cause flowers to become soft and rotten.

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Nutrient deficiencies

A lack of nutrients will cause a widespread yellowing of the leaves. The yellowing may begin at the base or top of the plant.

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Yellow spot

Leaf spot can show up as yellow or white spots on the leaves.

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Leaf Weevils

Leaf Weevils are insects that feed on the leaves of plants.

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Anthracnose

Anthracnose causes grey-brown spots with black margins on leaves and stems.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Woods in hills, coast

Map

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Shrub

Flower Color

Red

White

Pink

Cream

Bloom Time

Spring, Late winter

Leaf Color

Green

Name story

Common camellia

The latin name Camellia is evolved from the name of the Moravian botanist, Joseph Kamel ('Camellus'). This plant is the most common species of Camellia, so it is called the common camellia.

Rose of winter

Symbolism

Passion, desire, a courageous death

Usages

Artistic Value

Chinese poets left behind many poems praising the Japanese Camellia

Garden Use

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Heathers and allies

Family

Tea

Genus

Camellias

Species

Japanese camellia

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# Useful Tips

# Useful Tips