Camelia - (Camellia japonica)

The genus Camellia includes approximately 120 species, mainly consisting of tender, evergreen shrubs and small trees. Camellia blooms are magnificent and vary according to the numerous cultivated cultivars, soil types, and growing conditions.

They thrive in acidic or neutral, peaty soils. As for exposure, lightly shaded locations are ideal, as they prefer morning or late afternoon sun but cannot tolerate direct sun during the hottest hours of the day.

These species are used as solitary specimens or for container growing.

The blooming period varies depending on the variety, and some species are also used for tea production.

Camellia japonica is the common camellia, a shrub native to China and Japan known for its characteristic glossy leaves. Numerous cultivars have been developed from this species.

Camellia sasanqua is a highly valued species because it blooms from autumn to winter. Its flowers are smaller (and simpler compared to C. japonica) and sometimes fragrant. It tolerates full sun better than C. japonica and is used both as a solitary specimen and for hedging.