Camellias are evergreen trees or shrubs native to eastern and southern Asia. They are a very popular plant in this area due to their dark green foliage and beautiful flowers. In general, camellias need well-drained soil, rich in organic matter. They prefer partial shade and shelter from dry winds. Camellias should be planted with their trunk base above the soil line and should never have soil or mulch material covering the base. Established plants can survive on natural rainfall. Fertilize with an acid plant food in the weeks and months after blooming. Prune right after the blooming period is over. Camellias can be grown as specimen trees, as shrubs, hedges, in containers or as espaliers and bonsai. In the Pacific Northwest the two most commonly planted camellias are the C. japonica and the C. sasanqua.
Camellias PDF