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Camellia japonica is traditional, Southern favorite
Mississippi Gardens Newspaper and Web Column - November 24, 2003

Camellias are a Southern landscape favorite and there are two distinct groups that are superbly adapted to Mississippi climate. One is Camellia sasanqua, which is most commonly referred to by gardeners as Sasanquas. The other is Camellia japonica, which will be the focus of this article.

Sasanquas bloom earliest, from fall to early winter, and C. japonica blooms from late fall to early spring. Both types of Camellias have been grown in the South for decades and were at one time the backbone of the commercial nursery industry here.

Camellias are still tremendously popular because of their flowers, of course, but also because of their dark green, lustrous foliage. New growth is generally shiny rich green. Camellia japonica grows in a dense pyramidal form, but some types are more upright and columnar. Flowers are white, pink, rose, red and combinations of each. There are at least 2,000 cultivars, with some having variegated flowers.

Cold is likely the worst enemy of Camellia japonica. Since it flowers from November or December to April, it is often subject to temperatures below 32º F for extended periods. This may turn the flower petals brown. Otherwise, in full bloom, it is an object of beauty unsurpassed in the winter landscape. Camellias are very nicely used as accent plants or focal points, in borders or in mixed shrub plantings.

Camellias are easily transplanted from containers. They should be placed in moist, acid, well-drained soil that is high in organic matter for best results. The addition of compost at about 25% of soil backfill works well. Traditionally, camellias are placed in partial shade, especially pine shade, since full sun is reported to cause leaf burn and reduced flowering. However, southern container nurseries grow camellias in black plastic containers in full, blazing sun and the plants look fine. However, if you have the choice, consider situating your plants where they receive morning sun and afternoon shade.

Camellias are often "gibbed" to increase flower size. Treating the plant with Gibberellic Acid, a naturally occurring plant growth hormone, creates large, gorgeous blooms. The process involves twisting out the vegetative bud next to a flower bud. When the vegetative bud is removed it leaves a cup shaped area upon which a drop of Gibberellic acid solution is placed. Growth activity (flower bud swelling) is usually evident within two weeks.

Camellia japonica is a traditional southern favorite that looks awesome in bloom and very attractive all year round. Now through spring is a great time to shop for them while they are in bloom. Happy Gardening!

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These archived columns were written by Kerry Johnson, a hobby gardener, former weekly newspaper columnist and an Area Extension Horticulture Agent for 11 coastal counties in Mississippi.