Clement

Camellia japonica - red

Common Camellia; Japanese Camellia

• 
  Easy care
• 
  Most light conditions
• 
  Winter interest

• Camellia japonica - red likes...
  • 
    Most light conditions

    They prefer partially shaded/sheltered spot, though they'll be OK in full sun if taken care of.

  • 
    Moist soil

    They likes their soil to be moist, so make sure they don't dry out.

  • 
    Feeding

    Feeding with a liquid fertiliser in the late spring will help promote growth. Don't overdo it: they only need around two or three feedings between April and September. Make sure you're using an acidic blend, like ericaceous fertiliser.

  • 
    Pruning

    You can prune them when they're finished blooming (around May/June). Examine your plant for weak-looking leaves and yellow buds, snipping off the ones you find. Check out our Care Guide for tips on proper pruning techniques.

• Quick facts

  Botanical name

  Camellia japonica 'Black lace"

  Nicknames

  Common camellia; Japanese camellia

  Plant type

  Evergreen shrub; Outdoor; Flowering

  Pet/child safe?

  Yes

  Plant height (including pot)

  60-70cm; 90-100cm

  Nursery pot

  19cm; 29cm

• About camellia japonica

  Most of us just want to hibernate between Christmas and summer, but not camellias -- this magical garden plant blooms in the coldest months, injecting a bit of colour into those dreary winter days.

  Hailing from East Asia, where camellias have been dazzling plant enthusiasts since way back in the day. In China, camellias are a symbol for luck around the Chinese New Year, and has featured heavily in the country's paintings and porcelain since the 11th century. It was brought to Europe in the 18th century and has since become a classic plant in English gardens.