A half-hardy evergreen shrub with an open habit and leathery, elliptic to oval shaped dark green leaves with serrated edges. Produces small, fragrant white flowers to 3cm across, singly or in pairs along the stems from winter to spring
4-8 metres
4-8 metres
| Season | Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||||
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Prefers acidic soil with plenty of organic matter and good drainage. May be grown outdoors in frost-free areas; otherwise best grown in a large conservatory or greenhouse, or in a large container that can be moved indoors in winter. Position in light shade, and shelter from cold, dry winds. See camellia cultivation for more detailed advice
Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer, or by grafting in late winter
Pruning group 8 (evergreens), after flowering
May be susceptible to aphids, scale insects and vine weevil
May be susceptible to honey fungus, phytophthora root rot, camellia gall, camellia leaf blight, and camellia yellow mottle virus. Flowers may be infected by camellia petal blight