Camellia

Camellias hold deep cultural resonance in East Asia, symbolizing purity, longevity, and devotion in China, Japan, and Korea. In Japan, the camellia ("Tsubaki") is associated with the coming of spring and is often depicted in traditional art and ceremonies. In the West, camellias gained popularity in the 18th and 19th centuries, famously appearing in Alexandre Dumas’ novel "La Dame aux Camélias" and inspiring countless artists and gardeners. Their enduring beauty and symbolism make them a favorite in gardens and cultural celebrations worldwide.

• Camellia sinensis is the plant behind all varieties of true tea, from green to black and oolong.
• The genus was named in honor of Georg Kamel, though he never worked with camellias directly.
• Some camellia species, like C. nitidissima, produce rare yellow flowers.
• Camellias can live for centuries and often become treasured heirlooms in gardens.
• Thousands of named cultivars exist, reflecting centuries of breeding and selection.

Camellia flowers are most often unscented or have a subtle, delicate fragrance, with some species and cultivars offering a light, sweet aroma. The color palette ranges from pure white and soft pinks to deep reds, with rare yellow blooms found in select species. Their waxy petals and rich hues create a striking contrast against the glossy green leaves.

Camellias thrive in acidic, well-drained soils rich in organic matter and prefer partial shade, especially shelter from harsh afternoon sun. Regular watering is essential, but avoid waterlogged conditions. Mulching helps retain moisture and protect roots. Prune after flowering to shape the plant and encourage healthy growth. Camellias are sensitive to alkaline soils and drought, so careful site selection and consistent care are key to robust blooms.

Camellias symbolize purity, longevity, and devotion in East Asian cultures. In Japan, they are associated with spring and renewal, while in China, they represent admiration and perfection. In Western traditions, camellias can signify desire or refined beauty, and their presence in literature and art often evokes themes of love and remembrance.

• Camellia japonica – The classic Japanese camellia, with large, showy blooms in red, pink, or white.
• Camellia sasanqua – Known for smaller flowers and early autumn to winter blooming.
• Camellia sinensis – The tea plant, valued for its leaves rather than its flowers.
• Popular cultivars include 'Debutante', 'Nuccio’s Pearl', and 'Yuletide', each offering unique flower forms and colors.

Camellias have a rich history of breeding and hybridization, especially in China, Japan, and later Europe and North America. Thousands of cultivars have been developed, ranging from single to double-flowered forms and spanning a broad spectrum of colors. Breeding institutions such as the Royal Horticultural Society and the Camellia Society of America have contributed to the refinement and global distribution of camellia varieties. Hybridization has produced plants with improved cold tolerance, extended bloom seasons, and novel flower forms.

• Petal blight (Ciborinia camelliae) causes browning and rapid decay of flowers.
• Root rot (Phytophthora spp.) affects plants in poorly drained soils.
• Tea scale (Fiorinia theae) infests leaves, leading to yellowing and reduced vigor.
• Regular monitoring, good drainage, and prompt removal of affected plant material help manage these issues.

Camellias bloom from autumn through spring, with specific timing dependent on species and cultivar. Camellia sasanqua flowers in autumn to early winter, Camellia japonica in late winter to spring, and Camellia reticulata in spring. Their extended blooming period makes them valuable for adding color to gardens during cooler months.

Camellias are cherished as ornamental shrubs and trees, providing vibrant blooms for gardens and landscapes. Camellia sinensis is cultivated globally for tea production, forming the backbone of the world’s tea industry. Camellia oil, derived from seeds of select species, is used in cooking and cosmetics, particularly in East Asia. While not commonly edible, camellia flowers are sometimes used in floral arrangements, and the plant’s cultural symbolism enriches ceremonies and artistic traditions.