Camellia japonica
For sale in Lawrenceville, GA
- Slow to Moderate (6-12 in/year)
- Part Shade
- Cold hardy to USDA Zone 8a
- Pet safe
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About Camellia japonica
Camellia japonica is a classic Southern evergreen shrub grown for its large, rose-like flowers, ranging from single to fully double forms in white, pink, red, and bicolor, that bloom during winter and early spring when almost nothing else in the Georgia landscape is flowering. It grows slowly to moderately, eventually reaching 8-12 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide, and thrives in the dappled shade beneath tall pines that are common across Gwinnett County lots, since direct afternoon sun and winter wind can scorch its glossy evergreen foliage. Camellia japonica requires acidic, well-drained soil similar to azaleas and gardenias, and mature plants are notably long-lived, with well-sited specimens surviving many decades in older Southern gardens. Because it blooms in the coldest months, occasional late freezes can brown open flowers, but bud set typically continues over a long winter bloom season so subsequent flushes still open. Its combination of glossy year-round foliage and off-season winter color makes it one of the most valuable shrubs for extending bloom interest beyond the spring and summer season.
🚚 Delivery available to Lawrenceville and all of Gwinnett County — see our service area for exact timing.
Plant Specifications
| Mature Height | 8-12 ft |
|---|---|
| Mature Width | 6-8 ft |
| Sun Requirements | Part Shade |
| Water Needs | Moderate — consistent moisture, well-drained soil |
| Bloom Season | Winter through Early Spring |
| Growth Rate | Slow to Moderate (6-12 in/year) |
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 8a |
| Deer Resistant | No |
| Pet Safe | Yes |
| Native to Georgia | No |
Planting Instructions & Regional Tips
Plant Camellia japonica in part shade, ideally with protection from harsh winter wind and afternoon summer sun, in acidic, well-drained soil amended with pine bark fines. Mulch well and avoid deep cultivation near the shallow root zone. Water consistently, especially during dry fall weather when buds are forming for winter bloom. Avoid fertilizing late in the season, which can push tender growth vulnerable to cold damage.
Great For
Fast Facts
- Blooms in winter through early spring — off-season color
- Mature size: 8-12 ft tall, 6-8 ft wide
- Slow to moderate growth, very long-lived shrub
- Prefers part shade, protection from wind and afternoon sun
- Requires acidic, well-drained soil like azaleas and gardenias
- Pet safe, glossy evergreen foliage year-round
Pairs Well With
Camellia japonica FAQs
When does Camellia japonica bloom?
Camellia japonica blooms in winter through early spring, typically December through March in Georgia, providing color when few other shrubs are flowering. This off-season bloom time is one of its biggest landscape values, though occasional hard freezes can brown open flowers on a given flush.
Do deer eat Camellia japonica?
Yes, Camellia japonica is not considered deer resistant and can be browsed by deer, especially newly planted specimens. In Gwinnett County areas with heavy deer pressure, fencing or repellent application is worth considering until the plant is well established.