Plant of the Week: Sasanqua Camellia

Camellias are one of our favorite plants. Gorgeous dark green leafed evergreens that bloom large pink, white or red flowers during the colder months of the year. Camellia Sasanquas flower from late fall to early winter. Slow growing, they average 4’-10’ at maturity (depending on variety) but can be maintained with periodic pruning to fit into almost any southern garden.

Part Sun. Camellias do best in morning sun and afternoon shade. Afternoon sun can cause leaf scorch.

Moist, welling draining soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5.

Moderately drought tolerant once established.  Plants that receive more sun may require more water and be less tolerant of drought, especially in the summer months.

Prune in late winter.

Fertilize in spring and fall with an acidic fertilizer like HollyTone.

Some of our Favorite Varieties

Cleopatra - Averages 6 to 8 feet tall at maturity.

Kanjiro - Reaches 8 to 10 feet tall at maturity.

Mine No Yuki - Averages 6 to 9 feet tall at maturity.

October Magic Ruby - A smaller variety that stays between 3 to 4 feet tall at maturity.

Setsugekka - Averages 8 to 10 feet tall at maturity.

Shishigashira - Stays between 4 and 5 feet tall at maturity.

Showa No Sakae - Another smaller variety that averages 4 to 5 feet tall.

William Lanier Hunt - A fan favorite that can reach up to 20 feet tall, but averages 10 to 12 feet in most gardens.

Yuletide - A festive variety that averages 8 to 10 feet tall at maturity.