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

Cleopatra - Averages 6 to 8 feet tall at maturity.

Kanjiro

Kanjiro - Reaches 8 to 10 feet tall at maturity.

Mine No Yuki

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

October Magic Ruby

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

Setsugekka

Setsugekka - Averages 8 to 10 feet tall at maturity.

Shishigashira

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

Showa No Sakae

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

William Lanier Hunt

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

Yuletide

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