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Camellia growing in a garden
Perennial shrub

Camellia plant profile

Camellia japonica

A perennial shrub for partial sun.

Last updated .

When to plant

When to plant Camellia

Plant this broadleaf evergreen in spring or early fall, when the soil is warm enough for root growth but the plant is not under summer heat stress. Extension guidance favors these two windows over mid-winter for broadleaf evergreens, with early fall allowing roots to establish before the ground freezes.

The calendar shows this cited seasonal window as an approximate band. It does not convert the season into frost-adjusted dates.

Open Camellia in my garden calendar

Shows the source-backed planting season, not frost-adjusted dates.

Growing conditions

Sun
Partial sun
Soil pH
5.5 to 6
Lifecycle
Perennial
Spacing
60 to 120 in apart
Hardiness
Zones 7a to 9bFind my hardiness zone

Common problems

Watch for these

Also watch for: yellow leaves from low acidity, bud drop from watering, frequent disease problems, frequent insect problems.

Next steps

Continue with Camellia

Evidence trail

Evidence behind this profile

Original extension and institutional publications behind the planting, care, and safety facts on this page.

  1. Camellia japonica (Japanese Camellia)

    North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox (NC State Extension). Supports general reference. Checked 2026-06-18.

  2. Planting Shrubs Correctly (HGIC 1052)

    Clemson Cooperative Extension, Home & Garden Information Center. Supports planting reference. Checked 2026-06-18.

  3. Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants: Camellia (Camellia japonica) entry

    ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Supports pet-safety verdicts for dogs and cats. Checked 2026-07-18.