Camellia

How to care for camellia

• Light: Prefers partial shade, especially protection from hot afternoon sun. Too much shade can reduce flowering, while too much sun can scorch leaves.
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods and active growth. Avoid letting the plant dry out completely.
• Soil: Requires acidic, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. A pH between 5.5 and 6.5 is ideal.
• Temperature: Most common camellias (like C. japonica) are hardy in zones 7-9, thriving in mild winters and warm summers. Protect from extreme cold.
• Humidity: Benefits from moderate to high humidity. Mulching helps retain soil moisture and humidity.
• Fertilizer: Feed with an acid-forming fertilizer formulated for camellias/azaleas after flowering in spring. Avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall.
• Propagation: Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer. Dip in rooting hormone and place in a moist, well-draining medium.

Is camellia toxic to pets?

Pet-safe. Non-toxic to cats, dogs, and humans. See our guide to toxic plants for cats and dogs.

Common problems

• Bud drop: Caused by inconsistent watering, sudden temperature changes, or low humidity; maintain stable conditions.
• Yellowing leaves (chlorosis): Indicates iron deficiency or alkaline soil; use an acid-forming fertilizer or iron chelate.

Did you know?

The tea plant (Camellia sinensis) is a species of camellia, and all tea, including black, green, and oolong, comes from this plant.

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