Plant of the Month: Camellia Japonica

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 Japonicas flower from late winter to early spring. 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 spring after blooming has finished for the year.

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

Some of Our Favorite Varieties

CM Hovey - This variety boasts bright pink petals in a tight, formal shape. Averages 6 to 8 feet tall.

Kramer Supreme - Averaging 6 to 8 feet tall, Kramer Supreme wows with it’s bright red flowers.

Jacks - A darker pink than CM Hovey’s, Jacks also blooms in a tight formal pattern and can reach 6 to 10 feet tall.

Terry Gilley - A stunningly variegated variety that averages 5 to 9 feet tall.