Growing Camellias

Showy clusters of flowers in bloom - and a pleasing deep green foilage to grace the garden for the rest of the year.

These brilliant winter and early spring flowering plants are shrubs for all seasons. Showy clusters of flowers in bloom - and a pleasing deep green foilage to grace the garden for the rest of the year. Both Rhododendrons and Camellias are acid loving plants and can?t be grown in soil that is too alkaline.

Camellias are one of the most handsome and stately of the evergreen shrubs. They flower from late autumn through to spring and are hardy plants and easy to grow. There are too many to list in this brochure, but the Palmers Manual of Trees, Shrubs & Climbers has pictures and descriptions of many varieties.

Camellia Flowering Times

Early May to June, Mid July to August. Late September to October

Camellia Types

Camellia Japonica is the largest group of camellias. They are very hardy with dark green foliage. They flower over many months, even in heavy shade. Flower sizes vary from 5cm miniatures to semi-doubles up to 20cm across. These camellias are often used in floral art.

Camellia Sasanqua like warmer climates. Plant in a position receiving half to full sun for best free flowering results. They are incredibly versatile and suited to extremes of situations and conditions. Great for hedges, espalier, ground covers and block planting.

Camellia Reticulata are the largest flowering camellias. Spectacular blooms can be up to 25cm across. These camellias prefer sunlight for part of the day. They have strong open growth, heavy foliage and make excellent specimen shrubs.

Camellia Hybrids are usually crosses between Camellia saluensis and Camellia japonica. Many new hybrids have been produced in the last few years, including exciting miniatures.

Camellia Species, some of which are the parents of our present varieties, are usually incredibly hardy. Amongst them are some particularly graceful foliage types and some beautiful miniature flowers.

Camellias make great tub plants! Select a suitable potting mix designed for tubs. Pay extra attention to watering, as pots dry out very rapidly in hot weather. Don?t underplant as potted plants are restricted in their search for food. Make sure you use a specific fertiliser for Acid loving plants. Those in containers should be fed with slow release fertilisers.

For information on Camellia Pests & Diseases, check our guide Camellia Troubleshooting