Camellia japonica
Camellia japonica
Japanese camellia
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Common Names
Japanese camelliaCommon camelliaTsubaki
Context
nativeRegion
Eastern Asia (China, Korea, Japan).
usdaZones
7–9.
companionPlants
Azaleas, Rhododendrons, Ferns, Pieris
culturalUses
Ornamental flower in gardens; significant in Japanese culture and tea ceremonies (related species C. sinensis used for tea).
Care
Care Requirements
LightPrefers partial shade; avoids harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch leaves.
WateringKeep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; prefers regular watering, especially during dry periods.
SoilAcidic, well-draining, rich organic soil; mulching helps retain moisture and maintain acidity.
FertilizerFeed with acid-loving plant fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer; avoid over-fertilizing.
HumidityModerate to high humidity preferred but tolerates average household conditions.
TemperaturePrefers cool, temperate climates (10–20°C/50–68°F); sensitive to extreme heat and frost.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEvergreen shrub or small tree, dense foliage.
Mature Size1.5–6 meters tall (5–20 feet) and 1.5–5 meters wide (5–16 feet).
Growth RateSlow to moderate growth rate.
BloomingWinter to early spring, with showy, long-lasting flowers.
DormancyNo true dormancy but slower growth outside of the main season.
Propagation
MethodsSeed, Semi-hardwood cuttings, Grafting
DifficultyModerate; cuttings are preferred for true-to-type plants.
Best SeasonLate spring to early summer for cuttings; late autumn for seed sowing.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningLightly prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead wood.
RepottingRepot every 2–3 years for potted specimens; refresh topsoil for mature plants.
Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to tea scale, aphids, and camellia petal blight; avoid waterlogged soils to prevent root rot.
ToxicityNon-toxic to humans and pets.
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