Camellia hybr
Camellia hybr · Theaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around camellia hybr and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen, dark green and glossy
- Flowering
- October to March (simple or double flowers)
- Mature size
- Up to 2.5 m in height
- Growth
- Moderate to slow
- Hardiness
- Variable depending on cultivar (-5 to -10°C)
- Family
- Theaceae (tea family)
- Soil type
- Acidic, well-draining, rich in organic matter
✓ Taxonomy verifiedSource: AI estimate · hardiness: reliability medium.
Expert tips
The key tip
Hybrid Camellia flowers best with an annual application of well-decomposed compost in autumn (September–October), just before winter blooming. Soil acidity (pH 5.5–6.5) is key for saturated colours and maximum longevity.
The common mistake
Giving it lime (basic 'garden' fertilizers or lime mulch): this reduces vigour, yellows the leaves, and blocks flower bud development.
The pro's trick
Mulch with pine needles or ericaceous compost: this naturally maintains acidity and regulates soil moisture without excess.
Care
Light exposure
Choose partial shade or filtered light. Camellias fear direct sunlight, which can scorch flowers and foliage. An east or northeast-facing position is ideal to avoid intense afternoon rays.
Watering
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during growth and flowering. Preferably use rainwater or non-calcareous water, as camellias are sensitive to lime. Reduce watering in summer, a period of relative dormancy.
Soil
Camellia requires acidic soil (pH 5.5 to 6.5). Enrich the soil with potting mix, heather soil, and organic matter. Check drainage: roots cannot tolerate waterlogging or stagnant water accumulation.
Fertilising
Apply balanced or camellia-specific fertiliser in spring and summer, following recommended dosages. Avoid excess nitrogen, which would promote foliage at the expense of flowering. An application of compost in autumn is often sufficient.
Pruning and shape
Prune after flowering (April-May) to maintain a compact, bushy form. Remove dead or poorly placed branches. Camellias tolerate hard pruning poorly: prefer light and regular interventions.
Diseases and pests
Watch for powdery mildew and scale insects in dry air conditions. Practise good hygiene and ensure foliage is well-ventilated. Sudden temperature shock (frost after rapid thaw) can damage flower buds: protect in winter if necessary.
Did you know?
The camellia was long the emblem of nobility in the West: it is the white Camellia japonica that inspired the character of the Lady of the Camellias. Originating from Southeast Asia, modern hybrid camellias are the result of crosses selectively bred since the 18th century to extend the flowering period and enrich the colour palette.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- CamelliaCamellia japonica
- Tea plantCamellia sinensis
- Japanese stewartiaStewartia pseudocamellia
- Sasanqua camelliaCamellia sasanqua
- To-tsubakiCamellia reticulata
- Camellia lutchuensisCamellia lutchuensis
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.