Camellia japonica aka Camellia
Taxonomy
Common names
Camellia, Rose Of Winter, Japanese CamelliaHow to care for Camellia
Difficulty
With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Camellia, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.
Water
Camellia should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Camellia loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Camellia prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it is common for Camellia plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
Camellia is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.
Fertilizer
The Camellia is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.
Growth-pattern
Camellia grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.
Region of origin
Camellia’s native range is E. Asia - Japan, Korea.
More info:
Wikipedia