Camellia Plant Care
Camellia japonica L.
Camellia japonica, known as common camellia, or Japanese camellia, is a species of flowering plant from the genus Camellia in the tea family Theaceae. It is native to China and Japan, and grows naturally in forests at altitudes of around 300–1,100 metres (980–3,600 ft).
Every 7–14 days
Partial shade to full sun
40–70°F
50–80%
What Is the Camellia?
Camellia (Camellia japonica) belongs to the Theaceae family within the Camellia genus. Camellia is native to China and Japan, and grows naturally in forests at altitudes of around 300–1,100 metres (980–3,600 ft). Camellia is also known as Common Camellia, Japanese Camellia, Rose Camellia.
Camellia displays an upright, dense shrub growth habit, reaching up to 10 inches tall with a spread of approximately 8 inches. Camellia produces large, showy blooms in various colors like white, pink, red.
Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Camellia?
Camellia japonica requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–14 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Camellia Need?
Camellia thrives in partial shade to full sun light conditions. The optimal light range is 1000–3000 lux. Avoid placing Camellia in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Partial shade to full sun
1000–3000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Camellia Prefer?
Camellia japonica grows best at temperatures between 40°F and 70°F. Camellia prefers humidity levels of 50–80%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.
Temperature
40–70°F
Humidity
50–80%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Camellia?
Well-draining, acidic soil rich in organic matter like peat moss or pine bark. Good drainage is essential for Camellia to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Camellia?
Repot every 2-3 years in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Camellia?
Camellia can be propagated through seeds, semi-hardwood cuttings. Similar propagation techniques also apply to sasanqua camellia plant care, which shares the same genus.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the Camellia Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Camellia?
Camellia is susceptible to aphids, scale insects, tea scale. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Camellia Need?
Camellia grows outdoors in USDA Zone 11a. Native to China and Japan, and grows naturally in forests at altitudes of around 300–1,100 metres (980–3,600 ft), Camellia is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Camellia as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 11a
Keep exploring plants
Camellia is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Camellia genus — compare its care with other Camellia species on PlantoScan.
Camellia tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
More Camellia Species
Other Camellia species in PlantoScan's care catalogue share similar watering, light, and soil preferences:
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