Alabama Cooperative Extension System: The Culture of ...

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CamelliasThe Culture of
ANR-0202 The State Flower of Alabama

Origin and History

F rom the ancient temple
­gardens of China and Japan,
through the ornate conserva-
tories of eighteenth century Europe,
to the stately plantations of Amer-
ica’s nineteenth century South, the
camellia has been a pampered and
cherished plant, a living symbol of
elegance and aristocracy. Legends
of mythology and romance, fancy
and fiction have made the camellia
seem more rare and expensive,
more delicate and difficult to grow
than it really is.

Gardeners today are rediscovering Kate Mallory is Camellia sinensis, the common
the camellia as an easy to grow tea plant. Camellia japonica is the
evergreen flowering shrub with The name camellia was given to most widely grown ornamental
many uses, incredible ruggedness, the genus by the Swedish botanist species of the genus. More than
and great beauty. A wider variety Linnaeus, who developed the bino- 20,000 varieties or cultivars of various
of flower forms, new hybrids, seed- mial system of nomenclature used species and hybrids generally grown
lings, and hardy species as well as to classify plants. The pronunciation by amateur camellia hobbyists in the
improved cultural techniques and of camellia as either ca-mee-lia English-speaking world have been
devices have pushed the outdoor or ca-mell-ia is acceptable. The described. Flower colors, shapes,
growing areas of the American natural home of the camellia is an and bloom sizes show remarkable
camellia belt farther north each area encompassing Southeast Asia, diversity. Seedlings of crosses with
year. Even in the coldest regions, China, Japan, and various islands and Camellia reticulata and other species
the camellia has become a fixture countries from Viet Nam to Burma. have produced extensive variations
in the home greenhouse. More than 200 species of camellias in flower and leaf sizes and growth
have been identified with most of habits. Camellia sasanq­ ua is another
Ville de Nantes these being distributed throughout widely grown species.
southern China. The most economi-
cally important species of the genus

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Classification of Cultivars • Class VI, FORMAL DOUBLE, Varieties (Cultivars)
or Varieties Fully imbricated, many rows
of petals, never showing With more cold hardy varieties
Camellias vary in color, size, and stamens (Grace Albritton) becoming available, camellias are
form depending on the season, now being grown all over Alabama.
location, soil, nutrition of the plant, Blooming periods for the south- In addition to the southern United
and the aerial environment. The eastern United States are identified States, camellias are popular in
division and classification of the as follows: Australia, China, England, France,
flower forms, colors, and sizes of Germany, Japan, New Zealand,
camellias have been established by • E. (Early), September to early Southeast Asia, and southern
the American Camellia Society in November Europe, as well as Washington,
the official nomenclature book as D.C., California, and Oregon.
follows: • E.-M. (Early to Midseason),
Early November to Mid The camellia selections in Table 1
• Class I, SINGLE, One row December are especially suitable for beginning
of not over eight regular, camellia enthusiasts in Alabama.
irregular, or loose petals and • M. (Midseason), Mid Nursery workers may not have
conspicuous stamens (Yule- December to Mid February them all. Be sure you consult a
tide) local camellia grower or county
• L. (Late), Mid February to Mid Extension agent before paying for a
• Class II, SEMI-DOUBLE, Two March, varying with the year variety unknown to you or a variety
or more rows of regular, that is not listed in one of the three
irregular, or loose petals and Some camellia varieties sport tables in this publication. Start with
conspicuous stamens (Frank (mutate) freely, producing new some of these 12 varieties, join a
Houser) color forms. This provides even local camellia club and the Amer-
more variability to the species and ican Camellia Society, and attend a
• Class III, ANEMONE, One genus. camellia show to decide your next
or more rows of large outer plants for purchase or grafting.
petals lying flat or undulating;
the center a convex mass of Table 1. Varieties for the Beginning Camellia Grower
intermingled petaloids and Sparkling Burgundy: A C. sasanqua that blooms profusely early, peony, ruby
stamens (Elegans) rose + lavender
Donation: Hybrid of C. saluensis x C. japonica, semi-double, pink, heavy
• Class IV, PEONY, A deep bloomer. These two camellias are great for hedges or for a great splash of color,
rounded flower of either a but not for the vase.
Loose Peony Form consisting Adolphe Audusson (& Sports): Blooms midseason, semi-double, red, average
of loose petals, which may growth rate
be irregular, and intermingled Betty Sheffield (& Sports): Midseason, semi-double, white and pink combina-
stamens, and sometimes tions, average growth rate
intermingled petals, petaloids, Debutante: Blooms before Christmas, peony form, midseason, light pink
and stamens in the center Dixie Knight (& Sports): Mid- to late-season, loose peony, irregular petals, red
(Vedrine) or a Full Peony Elizabeth Boardman: Midseason, semi-double with fluted petals, white with
Form consisting of a convex medium growth rate
mass of mixed irregular Fran Mathis: Early to midseason, semi-double, champagne pink
petals, petaloids, and stamens
or irregular petals and petal-
oids never showing stamens
(Debutante)

• Class V, ROSE FORM Grand Slam: Midseason, semi-double to anemone form, brilliant dark red
DOUBLE, Imbricated (layered R. L. Wheeler: Early to midseason, semi-double to anemone, very large, pink
like scales) petals, showing Royal Velvet: Midseason, semi-double, dark velvet red
stamens in a concave Ville de Nantes: Mid- to late-season, semi-double, red and white, slow growth rate
center when fully opened
(Mathotiana)

2 Alabama Cooperative Extension System

The Environment for only early and late flowering, Water
Growing Camellias single, semi-double, and peony
form camellia varieties should be Adequate water is necessary for
Location planted outside in the northern half quality and quantity of blooms as
of Alabama. In the southern half of well as for proper development
Some camellias can be grown in the state, camellias can be grown of new stems and foliage after the
full sun, although most grow and without too much concern; however, blooming period. The supplemental
produce better flowers in partial many camellia enthusiasts grow their watering routine of the individual
shade where the blooms and prize camellias under protection in grower depends on the species of
foliage are protected from sunburn. plastic or glass greenhouses. camellia, the size and age of the
However, camellias in dense shade plant, soil type, air temperature,
often become spindly and produce Soil humidity, and rainfall throughout
fewer blooms. A site under pine the year in his or her locality.
trees is ideal because pines provide Camellias will grow in sandy,
filtered light year-round for growth, loamy, or clay soils that vary greatly Soil Aeration
winter p­ rotection, and natural in their water-holding capacity and
mulch from the pine needles. in the presence of the essential The top growth of all plants is
Do not plant camellias where elements of nitrogen, phosphorus, directly related to the extent and
hardwood shade trees with shallow and potassium (NPK). All soils vigor of the root system. Physical
root systems will compete with the contain these e­ lements and may characteristics of the soil, such as
camellias for nutrients and water. also contain the trace elements of air and water-holding capacity,
Avoid windy, exposed sites since iron, magnesium, copper, calcium, determine, to a large extent, the
wind can be detrimental for camel- and others. Good garden loam growth and useful activity of
lias in winter and summer. containing organic matter (leaf plant roots. An ideal soil is actu-
mold, compost, or humus) would ally composed of 50 percent soil
Cold Hardiness be expected to contain these particles and 50 percent pore space
essential elements as well as the half filled with water.
Varieties and the different flower trace elements to some degree.
forms vary in their resistance to Camellias do well in soils with an A healthy root system results in
cold. Generally, cold spells with acid reaction (pH 5.0 to 6.5) and do vigorous foliage growth in camel-
temperatures below 20 degrees poorly in alkaline conditions (pH lias. Excessive soil water fills the air
F reduce the size of the blooms. above 7.0). Contact your county spaces and reduces the oxygen for
It usually takes less cold to affect Extension agent for information respiration by the roots. Too much
the blooms and bloom buds than about the soil analyses offered soil water causes the accumulation
it takes to affect the plant itself. by the Auburn University Soil of carbon dioxide and other gases,
Open blooms can be damaged by Testing Lab. The texture of the soil which can be toxic to the roots and
temperatures of 26 degrees F, but determines its capacity for water can provide a favorable environ-
may be untouched at 28 degrees retention and its ability to hold ment for root-rotting fungi. Thus,
F, if partially shaded or recently nutrients. Clay soils hold moisture excessive soil water kills plant
wet by rain. Some varieties, double longer than sandy and loamy soils, roots, leaving the plant unable to
flowers in particular, often fail to but they are less permeable. They absorb adequate water. This results
produce typical or perfect blooms tend to shed water, unless a mulch in drought symptoms in the leaves,
after the temperature has dropped of coarser materials (pine needles including wilting and browning of
below 20 degrees F. However, or pine bark) allows the water to the margins or tips of the leaves.
damage can occur between 20 filter through gently. The natural Nutrient uptake is reduced. Iron
degrees F and 30 degrees F if the soil for camellias contains humus or deficiency symptoms (yellowing
drop occurs quickly after a period well-decomposed organic matter, is between the veins of younger
of warm weather. Camellias in a acid in reaction, and is highly reten- leaves) are often the first indica-
northern or western exposure, tive of moisture but drains well. tions of root injury. Although poor
unless otherwise protected from In camellia culture, the value of aeration and drainage are common
intense winter morning sun, will organic matter cannot be overem- causes of root problems, drought,
usually stand more cold weather phasized, since it improves aeration excessive fertilization, plants set
than those in an eastern or and drainage and adds moderately too deep, and other undesirable
southern exposure. Therefore, to soil acidity. cultural practices can reduce root

The Culture of Camellias 3

efficiency and result in poor plant
growth. High populations of
root-infecting nematodes also can
reduce plant vigor by feeding on
the roots and reducing the area of
the root that actively supplies the
plant with water and nutrients.

Drainage

Camellias are native to high rainfall Figure 1. Place plant on mound built in Figure 2. Backfill the hole with soil to a
areas and to sites providing good the bottom of the planting hole. The top level about halfway to the top of the root
natural drainage. Camellias require of the root ball should be 1 inch above ball. Water thoroughly, fill the remainder
both soil aeration and water. the surrounding ground. of the hole, water again, and add mulch.
After establishment, camellias will
survive drought longer than they the soil with 2 to 4 inches of pine Fertilizing
will tolerate poorly drained soils. straw, pine bark, or leaves. Mulch
Camellias with long-established holds moisture, reduces surface Camellias are not generally fertil-
root systems require infrequent evaporation, keeps the soil cooler, ized the first year after planting,
watering except under extreme suppresses weeds, and eliminates especially if the soil is high in
drought stress. the need for cultivation. The root organic matter. After the first year,
ball of the plant should be at least 1 apply fertilizer in the spring after
Planting and Caring inch above the surrounding ground blooming but before new growth
for Camellias level since the camellia will settle starts. With many fertilizers, small
with subsequent watering and amounts at frequent intervals are
Planting rainfall. Container-grown plants are better than heavy applications.
sometimes root-bound. The root Special camellia fertilizers as well
The best time to plant camel- ball should be broken by cutting it as 8-8-8, 10-6-4, cottonseed meal,
lias is early fall or winter, when open with a knife in three or four or cow manure are available at
temperatures are above freezing. places so the new roots will grow your local seed store. Some fertil-
Container-grown plants can into the planting mix. Do not over- izers have up to 70 percent of the
be transplanted or repotted at water in any soil type. Spacing of nitrogen in a slow-release form,
any time of the year. Planting plants depends on the natural habit which is less likely to burn the
and transplanting both require and form of the camellia variety—6 roots. One application in early
meticulous care, depending on to 8 feet apart should be adequate spring after blooming should be
the size and age of the plant. If for most varieties. followed by a second application
possible, prepare the site and soil in mid June to early July. A soil test
several weeks before planting. Most Mulching is the best way to determine the
camellia enthusiasts recommend nutrient status of the soil. Scatter
digging a hole in sandy and loamy Immediately after planting and the fertilizer evenly on top of the
soils twice the diameter and as watering, camellias should be mulch and away from the main
deep as 11⁄2 times the height of mulched 2 to 4 inches deep with stem of the plant. Water the fertil-
the plant’s root ball. In tight (clay) pine needles, pine bark, or leaves. izer into the soil. Do not fertilize
soil, the planting hole should be Peat moss and sawdust (unless old after July so the plants will have a
even larger. Build a mound of one and well rotted) are generally not longer time to harden off and avoid
part soil and one part fine pine good for use as mulch since they freeze damage.
bark mixed in the bottom center of can form a crust when they dry,
the hole (Figure 1). Place the plant making it difficult to get water and
on the mound and fill with your air to the roots.
planting mix halfway to the top of
the root ball (Figure 2).

Soak thoroughly and finish filling
the hole with soil mix, water again,
and mulch the watered surface of

4 Alabama Cooperative Extension System

Pruning vegetative bud flower bud

Camellias require only light pruning, Figure 3. Remove the vegetative bud and apply 1 drop gibberellic acid (GA) s­ olution.
if any, to remove dead wood, to
shape into compact plants, and
to thin inside limbs to increase air
movement. The best time to prune
is after blooming and before new
flower and vegetative buds form.

Disbudding Propagation Seeds of camellias ripen in the fall,
usually in September and October.
Disbudding is usually done to Camellias can be propagated They germinate quicker if planted
increase the size and quality of from seed (sexually), by rooted immediately after harvest. A germi-
the blooms. This is attained by cuttings, by cleft grafting, and by nating medium composed of peat
removing excess flower buds to air layering (asexually). moss or 2⁄3 sphagnum moss and
one per terminal. Disbudding varies 1⁄3 Perlite is recommended. If not
depending on the age, size, and Sexual Propagation planted at once, the seed coat of
variety of camellia. It is usually camellias hardens in storage. Some
done in late August and September. Propagation By Seed growers crack hardened seeds
with pliers or nick them with a file
Gibbing This is the easiest method for to allow moisture to enter more
producing a large number of readily to swell and germinate the
Gibbing is the application of the camellia plants. If naturally occur- seed. The peat moss or sphagnum
plant hormone gibberellic acid ring seed are personally collected, moss should be moistened and
(GA) to a spot near the bloom acquire them from vigorous- then squeezed dry before mixing
bud to induce earlier than normal growing varieties that are known with the Perlite. Perlite is sterile,
blooming for the variety. It also seed producers. Then, if they grow and the pH of peat moss is low
increases the size, texture, and into vigorous plants but have poor enough to prevent bacterial
keeping quality of the bloom, but it blooms, they can still be used for growth. Perlite permits water to
often changes the color. GA is avail- grafting understock. Plants from filter through freely, still holding
able from many sources, including seed will vary in flower color and adequate moisture. Plant seeds with
the American Camellia Society. The form and are usually unlike either eye down, which is where the root
recommended mixture is 1 gram of parent. Chance seedlings, however, will break out, and cover with a
GA to 2 ounces of distilled water, are the way most new varieties ¼-inch layer of peat moss or Perlite.
which should be refrigerated when have originated in the past. Today,
not in use. Gibbing is done in deliberate varietal and hybridizing Planting can be in a flat of
late summer (after Labor Day) by crosses are originating many new individual containers (peat pots),
breaking or twisting out the vegeta- varieties. If you make varietal while seed of known origin can be
tive bud at the base of a flower bud. crosses, be sure to keep accurate planted in flats in rows. Individu-
Use a small eye dropper to place 1 records and make reciprocal crosses ally numbered stakes are used to
drop of GA in the small receptacle of varieties with characteristics that identify each seed source. After
of the growth bud (Figure 3). Most, you desire. If your crosses result in planting seed, thoroughly water
but not all, varieties respond favor- seed, great! Plant the seed—a new with a fine spray or mist. The time
ably to gibbing. Do not gib young variety may have been developed. between waterings will depend on
plants. Even on mature plants, gib heat, light, and location of the flat
only a few buds each week—never Water, heat, and light are the three or container. Many hobbyists put
all the buds. Results can be noted most important factors for rapid camellia seed in large-mouthed
in 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the seed germination. Excess water jars or plastic bags in thoroughly
variety, location, and environment. is the most likely factor to cause moistened peat moss and then
seed rotting. If the drainage of the keep them on top of a water heater
medium is good and relatively or other warm place. Germinated
sterile, chances of rot are slim. Seed seeds are removed when the
can be germinated in a greenhouse
or home or stored until spring. The Culture of Camellias 5

taproot reaches 2 inches in length. deep box or bin with openings for and is topdressed with low levels
The tip is pinched off before drainage in the bottom. Place 1 or 2 of fertilizer, such as 18-6-8 or liquid
planting in 4-inch or larger pots. inches of a good soil in the bottom 20-20-20.
The normal growing span before to cover a layer of gravel before
camellia seedlings bloom is 3 to 5 adding 4 to 6 inches of the rooting Propagation By Cleft Grafting
years. During this time, the plants medium. Cover with clear plastic,
will require pruning and good such as dry-cleaning bags. The box The cleft graft is a widely used
cultural treatment to develop good must be deep enough to allow for method of propagating camellias.
quality plants. 6 to 8 inches of cutting growth. Be Any vigorous camellia can be used
sure the box is shaded. Both proce- for rootstock, although C. sasanqua
Asexual Propagation dures require checking for moisture is widely used because of its vigor,
levels and high humidity, which are disease resistance, and ability to
Asexual propagation provides a way important for root development of withstand varying soil conditions.
to reproduce camellias that is the cuttings. On the other hand, vigorous
certain to yield the variety desired. growing C. japonica and seedlings
Asexual propagation methods After 2 to 3 months, camellia with poor blooms may be superior,
include rooting cuttings, cleft and cuttings should have developed being more cold resistant and more
surrogate grafting, and air layering. a fibrous root system varying compatible. Grafting outdoors is
with the variety and the growing usually done in mid to late February
Propagation By Cuttings environment. Rooted cuttings can and early March. It can be done in
be potted to large peat pots or a greenhouse in December. The
Camellia cuttings can be rooted directly into 1-gallon containers in a understock may vary in diameter
in almost any season, although the soil high in organic matter. Do not from ¾ to 1½ inches and should be
optimal time is July, after the new plant too deeply, whatever the size cut or sawed off smoothly about
spring growth has hardened. A of container used. It is the health 2 to 3 inches above the ground or
greenhouse, cold frame, or a deep- and vigor of the rooted cutting and first lateral root (Figure 4a). Use a
rooting box is needed. Cuttings not the size of the container that knife to split the stem of the under-
are taken from 3 to 5 inches of is important. The soil medium in stock (Figure 4b). Select the scion
terminal hardened growth. The the container should have a pH of from healthy plants and from the
bottom leaves are removed from 5.5 to 6.5. It is important that the mature growth of the past season.
the cutting, leaving two to three medium drains well, holds nutrients, Scions should be terminal tips 3
leaves and the vegetative buds on holds moisture, is kept in the shade, to 5 inches long (Figure 5a). Use
the tip of the cutting. Flower buds
are removed, if present. Slice off ab
the lower end with a sharp knife or
razor at an acute angle. Dip the cut Figure 4. Prepare the understock for grafting: (a) choose healthy understock; cut
stem end into Rootone, Hormodin, straight across about 3 inches above ground; (b) cut down through the center about
or a similar root-stimulating 1½ inches. (Large understock may be split twice.)
compound to stimulate rooting
before sticking into a nail hole in heartwood
the lightly moistened medium to cambium
half the cutting’s length. Firm the
medium, and water the cutting. The outer bark
preferred rooting medium is 1 part
Perlite or peat moss mixed with 1 ab c
part sand. When rooting only a few
cuttings, a 1-gallon plastic container Figure 5. Procedure for cleft grafting: (a) select strong tip cutting, leaving enough stem
of the medium is adequate. After to trim to a 1½-inch wedge; (b) pry open split in understock and insert scion wedge (be
sticking up to 6 cuttings, place a 2- sure to align green inner bark); (c) insert two scions, one on each side of the understock.
or 3-liter soft drink bottle with the
bottom cut out over the cuttings.
Then place the container and bottle
in the shade. When rooting a large
number of cuttings, use a large

6 Alabama Cooperative Extension System

a sharp knife or razor to fashion a plant to wilt before it becomes secure the foil with string above
long, bilateral wedge at the base of acclimated to light and lowered and below the sphagnum to keep
the scion. The slit in the understock humidity. When to remove the air out of the ball (Figure 6b). The
can be opened and managed with cover over the graft is a matter air-layered plant can be severed
an ice pick or screwdriver, while of experience. Protect the young below the ball in about 4 to 6
placing the scion wedges in place. graft from mechanical damage the months and then potted in 2­ -gallon
It is critical that the cambium layer first year. Mulch with pine straw containers and given protection
of the stock and the scion line up and remove sucker sprouts of the for the first winter. Only vigorous
(Figure 5b). The cambium layer is understock as they develop. Surro- growing camellias should be air
the thin green line within the bark gate, bark, nurse-seed, and wedge layered, since most slow-growing
area. It is exposed on both sides grafts have also been used with camellias are usually cleft grafted
of the scion wedge. On a ¾-inch camellias. Consult camellia litera- to vigorous understock to improve
or larger understock, insert two ture or experts for one of these. their relative rate of growth.
scions, one on each side of the Cleft grafting is easy once you have
understock (Figure 5c). After the observed it being done properly by Container-Grown Plants
scion or scions are placed in the an experienced propagator.
split understock, it is important to Camellias are adaptable to growing
keep the scion humid to permit Propagation By Air Layering in 1- to 5-gallon plastic containers
callusing. The split stock usually with drainage holes. The potting
holds the scion firm, but it may be Camellias can be air layered in the medium should also provide good
wrapped with string, rubber ties, or spring after the new growth begins drainage. A mixture of 1⁄3 soil, 1⁄3
3⁄8-inch electrician’s tape. The graft to harden. Select a healthy branch sand, and 1⁄3 organic matter (Perlite
may be covered with moist, sterile 1 to 2 feet in length from tip to or fine pine bark) is excellent for
sand. To maintain the humidity base. The stem is usually between growing camellias. Other media
around the scion cover the graft 3⁄8 to 5⁄8 inch in diameter near the compositions that have been used
with a 1-gallon or larger bleach base. Various methods of wounding are (1) 80 percent fine pine bark
bottle or other opaque container are practiced. One method is to and 20 percent river sand plus
with the bottom cut out or with a circle cut the bark with a sharp dolomitic limestone, cow manure,
large-mouthed brown jar. Burlap or knife near the base of the branch and trace elements; (2) 3 parts fine
a brown paper bag will be needed in two places about 2 to 2½ inches pine bark and 1 part Perlite and
to cover a 1-gallon milk jug (bottom apart. Girdle the stem and remove sandy top soil; (3) 2 parts forest
cut out) or a large-mouthed jar the bark between the circular cuts humus and 1 part sandy loam; (4)
to protect the graft from sun and (Figure 6a). The girdled section of 3 parts fine pine bark, 1 part sand,
excessive heat buildup. Be sure the branch is dusted with rooting ½ part soil, and ½ part loose peat
to label the graft, or you will have compound and wrapped with moss; and (5) 50 percent peat moss
to wait until the camellia blooms moist sphagnum moss in the shape and 50 percent sandy loam. Do not
to identify it. The time for callus of a small football and tied in place. plant rooted cuttings or germinated
formation and bud break varies The sphagnum is wrapped with a seedlings too deep. Firm the
with the variety and season. It layer of clear plastic wrap followed medium to reduce air pockets.
is important to have good callus by a wrap of aluminum foil. Tightly
formation uniting the cambiums foil aluminum foil
of the scion and stock before 12-18 in (30-45 cm) bound sphagnum moss
uncovering the graft. It is best to tightly
lower the humidity under the bottle a bark around bark removed
or a jar in stages. Removing the lid removed each and hormone
of the bottle or milk jug or raising end applied here
the jar an inch lowers the humidity Figure 6. Air layering a camellia moss
and allows some light to enter at
the same time. When the bottle lid b
is removed, the light may cause
the shoot to grow out through the
lid area. Do not permit the young

The Culture of Camellias 7

Watering is essential during the Problems of the infective spores and the
active growing season and is apothecia of the fungus. Start
required frequently during drought Diseases the treatment in early December
conditions. However, watering and continue every 4 to 6 weeks
increases the loss of nutrients from Flower Blights through March. Spray or drench to
the medium. Containers with sand wet the soil and mulch thoroughly
and pine bark mulch can be fertil- Camellia flower blight, or petal with 2 gallons per 20 square feet.
ized with a weak solution of fish blight, is one of the biggest threats
emulsion (5-2-2) or (5-1-1) applied to camellia growth. Caused by Botrytis flower blight (gray mold)
weekly without fear of burning the the fungus Ciborinia camelliae, usually infects inside blooms that
young plants. Slow-release fertil- formerly Sclerotinia camelliae, it have been damaged by frost, water
izers are widely used for container infects only the flower tissue of dripping from above, water sprays,
plants as are cottonseed meal and camellias, does not spread from high humidity, or high tempera-
other organic fertilizers. Slow- flower to flower, and is character- tures. Lack of good air circulation
release fertilizers can be mixed with ized by brown spots on the petals is also a contributor. Botrytis
any medium before planting. Liquid that spread rapidly to engulf the symptoms are very similar to petal
fertilizers are also recommended. whole bloom. Infected blooms fall blight in the bloom, except that
Light fertilizer applications biweekly to the ground and in time produce Botrytis does not engulf the bloom
during the growing season are a sclerotium in the base of the rapidly. Botrytis-infected blooms do
preferred to heavy, less frequent bloom. These sclerotia are the not have the slimy texture associ-
applications. Reduce fertilization in source of survival of the fungus ated with petal blight. Frequently,
late summer and fall as camellias go until the following year. Sclerotia a gray, powdery fungal growth
into the dormant season of winter. may lie dormant in the soil up to appears on the flowers, particularly
Soil pH is important in container- 4 years. When warm and humid on the stamens or at the base of the
grown plants and is kept in the 5.5 conditions occur, small, dime- blooms. The abundance of spores
to 6.5 pH range for camellias. sized, brownish-gray mushrooms, spreads the fungus from bloom
known as apothecia, are produced to bloom, damaging each one it
After a few years, container plants from the sclerotia to liberate the touches. It is not a serious problem
become root-bound and require spores that are the infective stage. unless ignored or neglected. Sanita-
repotting with the same type This produces another cycle of tion is the best prevention. Be sure
fresh medium. If the roots are petal blight. A community effort your plants have good air circula-
concentrated on the outside of the is needed to control the disease tion. Your county Extension agent
ball, repotting to larger containers since the spores can be carried can recommend fungicides, such as
is advisable. The soil is washed by wind for half a mile or more. t­hiophanate-methyl or triadimefon
from the roots and the pruning of It is prevalent and most active in that will control Botrytis.
the root ball is carried out. Using humid areas when the temperatures
the same soil mixture, firm and range between 45 degrees F and 70 Root Rot
thoroughly water. Repotting is best degrees F during the mid- to late-
in early spring before new growth season flowering period. Camellia Root rot can be caused by one of
starts. Container plants require petal blight does not infect the two fungi. Phytophthora cinna-
winter protection to avoid damage leaves, stems, or roots of camellias. momi attacks C. japonica and C.
from freezing temperatures. In mild reticulata under certain conditions.
climates, container-grown camellias Some control can be obtained The fungus does not attack C.
can be protected by large quantities by sanitation measures when all sasanqua and C. oleifera. It can be
of mulch in an area sheltered from blooms are picked up, including prevented with a drench of metal-
the wind. In colder regions, plants petals and blooms lodged in axyl applied once every 6 months.
require the protection of a sun branches, and destroyed by burning Root rot caused by Cylindrocla-
porch or a cool greenhouse. or by sending them to a garbage dium crotalariae often results from
landfill. Drenches of pentachloro- adding sand or silt contaminated
nitrobenzene (PCNB—75 percent with the fungus. A clean soil mix
wettable powder) applied around will solve the problem. The fungus
the plant and to the mulch of rarely attacks mature and
camellias inhibit the development established plants.

8 Alabama Cooperative Extension System

Camellia Dieback Leaf Gall Environmental (Physiological)
Problems
The fungus Glomerella cingulata This disease is caused by the
causes camellia dieback. Symptoms fungus Exobasidium camelliae and Camellia Scab
are the sudden wilting of a twig of is most common on C. sasanqua.
new growth or the development of Infected leaves thicken and enlarge Not a fungus disease, scab refers
cankers on a limb or trunk. Control with the first flush of growth in the to several types of damage to
by cutting off infected, wilted areas spring. Usually, only a few leaves plant leaves—black spot, white
down to clean, uninvaded wood. and twigs are infected on each spot, angular spot, concentric
Infected wood is brown with an plant. Control by removing the spot, corky excrescence, scurf, and
orange cast. Sterilize the pruners thickened leaves when they first sasanqua spot. Scab is the result
with isopropyl alcohol between appear and destroying them before of improper water relations in the
cuts. Dieback is spread when the fungus sporulates and infects plant and too much hot sun. The
contaminated water splashes on the plants for next year’s growth. unsightly condition of the foliage
new growth or a plant wound, such is of more concern to the grower
as a fresh leaf scar. C. sasanqua
is more susceptible to dieback Table 2. Established Varieties That Do Well in Central Alabama
than is C. japonica. It is more
prevalent in humid areas. Spray Early to Midseason Bloomers
t­hiophanate-methyl at labeled rates
every 2 or 3 weeks beginning in White: Alba Plena, Charlie Bettes, Conrad Hilton, Dear Jenny, Emmett
early spring and continue fungicide Barnes, King Cotton, Nuccio’s Gem, Silver Anniversary, White Empress
applications into June. Pink: Berenice Boddy, Dr. Tinsley, Elizabeth Le Bey, High Hat, Kick Off,
Lady Clare, Marie Bracey, Pink Perfection, Simeon
Viruses Red: Daikagura Red, Laura Walker, Reg Ragland, Terry Gilley, Tomorrow, Vulcan
Variegated: Carter’s Sunburst & Sports, La Peppermint, Magic City,
Some viruslike variegation in Margaret Davis, Mona Jury, Ward’s Daikagura
camellia flowers and leaves is
genetic, while yellow leaf viruses Mid- to Late-Season Bloomers
transmitted by grafting cause mottle
and other flower and leaf variega- White: Leucantha, Man Size, Onetia Holland, Sea Foam, Snowman, White-
tion. The degree of variegation in By-The-Gate
both flowers and leaves varies from Pink: C.M. Wilson, Diddy Mealing & Sports, Emily Wilson, Fashionata,
year to year on the same plant. This Jessie Katz, Magnoliaeflora, Marguerite Sears, Miss America, Moonlight
is caused by the uneven distribu- Sonata, Omega, Pink Champagne, Rev. John Drayton, Show Time, Spring
tion of the virus in the plant and Sonnet, Tiffany, Tomorrow & Sports
the varying environmental condi- Red: Aunt Jetty (Governor Mouton), Firebrand, Flame, Kramer’s Supreme,
tions of each season. Leaves with Mrs. Charles Cobb, Professor Charles E. Sargent
yellow leaf mottle infection are less Variegated: Charlotte Bradford, Donckelarii, Gigantea, Herme, Iwane, Lady
cold hardy and tend to sunburn Kay, Lady Van Sittart, Lindsay Neill, McVey’ Guilio Nuccio, Miss Charleston,
more easily than healthy plant Ville de Nantes
foliage. Avoid viruses by grafting
to nonvariegated understock of C. Table 3. Varieties from C. Reticulata x C. Japonica Crosses
sasanqua and C. japonica. Also, do
not collect scion wood for grafting Dr. Clifford Parks: Midseason, red with orange cast, semi-double to
from camellias with mottled or anemone to loose to full peony form
variegated leaves. The flower Frank Houser: Early to midseason, red, semi-double to peony form
striping as seen in camellias Herme, Terrell Weaver: Midseason, flame to dark red, semi-double to loose peony
Elizabeth, and Lady Van Sittart is form, unusual variegation
genetic and is desirably transmitted Valentine Day: Midseason, salmon pink, formal double with rosebud center
by grafting.

The Culture of Camellias 9

than the damage is to the camellia. weather in the early fall can cause more conspicuous than the dark
To prevent scab, plant camellias buds to drop off in late fall. In the brown, oval-shaped females, which
in well-drained soil, in semi-shade spring, late-blooming varieties may are about ⁄1 20 of an inch long. The
locations. Water during dry periods drop their buds before opening female lays her eggs under the
in spring, summer, fall, and winter. as the temperatures begin to rise scale covering. The eggs hatch in
and initiate shoot growth. Avoid 1 to 2 weeks. The newly hatched
Sunburn planting varieties that open too scale, known as a crawler, moves
late or gibbing the flower buds to about the plant and after a week
This condition, which is the enjoy them earlier in the season. inserts its mouthparts into succulent
yellowing or bronzing of leaves New growers may not realize that new-plant tissue. The adult stage is
exposed to the hot sun, is a all camellia varieties do not perform usually attained in 5 to 11 weeks
common problem. Causes include equally well in all locations. after egg hatch, so there are several
moving plants from shaded to generations produced each year.
more exposed sites, removing over- Wide fluctuations in moisture can
hanging branches, underwatering also cause dropping of flower buds. Camellia scale (Pulvinaria floc-
of new transplants, or setting out Camellias do best when moisture cifera) is the other common scale
plants with inadequate root systems is sufficient and uniform. Bud drop pest of camellias. Proper culture
relative to the aboveground plant. can be caused by soil that is either and the use of insecticidal sprays
too wet or too dry. Neglect of any can control scale insects.
Fertilizer Burn cultural factor—soil, nutrition,
water, drainage, shade—can cause Horticultural oil sprays are envi-
This problem results from overfer- bud drop. Any type of stress on the ronmentally friendly and nontoxic
tilization or inadequate mulching plant can result in bud drop. If this to humans and pets. Systemic
before fertilizing and from under- condition occurs year after year, it insecticides, such as dimethoate or
watering. may be a varietal problem, which acephate, can be applied to control
can be resolved by grafting to or eliminate scale insects. Sprays of
Lichens another rootstock or transplanting label-directed concentrations can be
the plant to another location. A sprayed on the plants. Since they
Lichens are gray-green to green camellia bud mite may be the are systemic, they kill the sucking-
mossy growths on the stems of old, problem. Early blooming varieties type insects without direct contact.
neglected camellias. The lichen is or gibbing for earlier blooms can Due to the insect cycle, a second
a combination of a fungus and an prevent mite damage. Spraying spray may be required a few weeks
alga that grows symbiotically. They plants with a miticide, applied as later. The first application kills the
are not parasitic to the camellia. soon as flower buds have set, will crawlers, females, and males, while
Affected plants usually need fertil- usually control flower bud mites. the second spray kills the crawlers
izing, watering, and mulching for that have hatched since the first
better growing conditions. Spraying Insects spray. Always use insecticides
with a copper fungicide will kill strictly according to the labeled
unsightly lichens. instructions.

Bud Drop Of Camellias Scale Insects Other Insect Pests

Bud drop is a fairly common Scale insects are the most important Leaf-eating bugs, spider mites,
problem that causes concern pests of camellias. They have aphids, mealy bugs, and white
among camellia growers at all levels sucking mouthparts and feed flies are all readily controlled with
of expertise. Because camellias by piercing the leaves and twigs insecticides, once the pest has
bloom during the winter months, and utilizing the plant juices for been identified. None of the insect
they are susceptible to wide swings food. This stunts and weakens the pests are life threatening to the
of temperature that are part of the camellia and hurts the appearance plant (except scale insects) unless
“normal” winter weather in the of the foliage. Tea scale (Fioriniae they are ignored and left untreated.
Southeast. Freezing temperatures theae) is the most damaging scale They can then become severe, but
can cause buds to drop before insect. Yellow splotches appear on this seldom happens. Your county
opening, especially with young the upper side of the leaves, while Extension agent can identify the
plants and some varieties that are the underside is covered with a insect and recommend the appro-
cold sensitive, such as hybrids of cottony mass. The adult males have priate control measures.
C. reticulata. Long periods of hot a white, waxy covering and are

10 Alabama Cooperative Extension System

References Camellia Society. R.L. Bryan, Trehane, J. 1998. Camellias,
Columbia, SC. (Under revision by The Complete Guide to Their
The Camellia Journal, volumes A.C.S.) 476 pg. Cultivation and Use. (More than 100
35-36 and 50-54. American Camellia illustrations for uses of camellias).
Society, Fort Valley, GA. Galle, F.C. 1979. Azaleas and Timber Press, Portland, OR. 176 pg.
Camellias. A.B. Morse, Burlington,
Chidamian, C. 1959. Camellias IL. 48 pg.
for Everyone. Doubleday & Co.,
N.Y. 191 pg. Gonos, A.A., and S. Bracci.
1999. Camellia Nomenclature.
Chuang-xing, Ye. 1997. Clas- Southern California Camellia
sification in the genus Camellia L. Society. 184 pg.
The American Camellia Yearbook.
Pg. 9-23. Griffin, F., Sr. 1964. Camellian, Snowman
A Compilation of Authoritative
Edgar, L.A. 1991. Camellias, the Information on Camellia Culture.
Complete Guide. Crowood Press, Vogue Press, Columbia, SC. 245 pg.
London. 224 pg.
Macoboy, S. 1998. The Illus-
Ellison, D. 1997. Camellias, trated Encyclopedia of Camellias.
a Photo Dictionary.(1,000 color (More than 1,000 color photos of
photos of camellias). Flora Publi. camellias.) Timber Press, Portland,
Intnat’l. Ltd., Brisbane, Australia. OR. 304 pg.
160 pg.
Napier, J.M. 1953. Growing camel-
Feathers, D.L., and M.H. Brown. lias as a hobby. Clemson Agric. Ext.
1978. The Camellia, Its History, Serv. Circular 377. 32 pg.
Culture, Genetics, and a Look Into
Its Future Development. American

Winfred Womack

Maureen Connolly Lady Kay Red Variegated Kate Mallory

Fashionata Marie Bracey Lady Kay

The Culture of Camellias 11

ANR-0202 J. Raymond Kessler, Extension Horticulturist, Professor, Horticulture

Originally authored or revised by J. David Williams, Extension Horticulturist, Associate Professor, Hor-
ticulture; Urban Diener, Professor Emeritus, Entomology and Plant Pathology, Ron Shumack and Ray-
mond I. Self, former Extension Horticulturists; Ken Tilt, Extension Horticulturist, Professor, Horticulture;
Pat Cobb, former Extension Entomologist and Professor Emerita; and Austin Hagan, Extension Plant
Pathologist, Professor, Entomology and Plant Pathology.

Use pesticides only according to the directions on the label. Follow all directions, precautions, and re-
strictions that are listed. Do not use pesticides on plants that are not listed on the label.

The pesticide rates in this publication are recommended only if they are registered with the Environ-
mental Protection Agency and the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries. If a registration is
changed or cancelled, the rate listed here is no longer recommended. Before you apply any pesticide,
check with your county Extension agent for the latest information.

Trade names are used only to give specific information. The Alabama Cooperative Extension System
does not endorse or guarantee any product and does not recommend one product instead of another
that might be similar.

For more information, call your county Extension office. Look in your telephone directory under your
county’s name to find the number.

Published by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System (Alabama A&M University and Auburn
University), an equal opportunity educator and employer.

Revised June 2013, ANR-0202

© 2013 by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. All rights reserved.