How to Grow Camellias

Camellias are probably one of the most popular evergreen shrubs, second only to perhaps the Rhododendron or the Boxwood. Camellias are grown for their showy winter or spring blooming flowers, glossy evergreen foliage and in a few cases their ability to make tea! They are an excellent specimen shrub, informal hedge or woodland accent. They are also perfectly at home in a Zen or Japanese Garden.

Types of Camellias

There are three common species of Camellia in cultivation:

Camellia sasanqua (Winter Camellia)

Sasanqua camellias are the early bloomers. They will often bloom before or around Christmas in our mild climate
 

Camellia japonica (Spring Camellia)

Japanese Camellias typically bloom in late winter and early spring in the Pacific Northwest.
 

Camellia sinensis (Tea Camellia)

Also known as the Chinese or Tea Camellia, this is the plant grown to make tea! Its leaves are harvested, dried and processed into commercial tea products. It is a little less hardy than the others and therefore will need more winter protection in order to be grown in our climate

Planting Camellias

Camellias are understory, woodland plants that prefer part shade / part sun, but can tolerate full sun in our climate. As they bloom in the cooler months, they are best planted in sheltered areas that will shield their blooms from rain, snow and frost. A position under a tree or under the eaves of a house are ideal. Soil should be moist, and well drained, rich and somewhat acidic
 

Fertilizing Camellias

As Camellias prefer acidic soil, it is best to use an acidifying fertilizer like our Garden Pro Rhododendron and Azalea food.

Pruning Camellias

In general, Camellias do not require a lot of extra pruning other than to remove spent flowers as well cut away dead, damaged or diseased wood
 

Camellia Care

Camellias are occasionally affected by common pests like aphids or scale. Use  sharp jet of water to knock off as many aphids as possible. Or consider using a soap and water solution or as a last resort, a chemical pest control product. Scale can usually be managed by physically scraping them off or with an application of insecticides.