Camellia: types, characteristics and care

The Camellia genus groups between 100 and 250 species native to the tropics and subtropics of Southeast Asia, Japan, and China, although Arrived in Europe at the hands of the JesuitsThis is because the name comes from the Jesuit father Camelus, who lived in the 17th century.

We find them in forests halfway above sea level. It is one of the best known and most popular shrubs in spring and winter. colorful flowers Elegant appearance and striking green leaves It attracts attention and is therefore one of the plants chosen to adorn the garden throughout the year. Below you will find everything about camellias, types, characteristics, care and much more:

Types of camellias

As we have said, There are many native varieties of this plant. But among its diversity There are two specific types most commonly found in home gardens and orchards:

1. Japanese camellia: This type of camellia blooms in winter or early spring. Has large flowers and leaves. They are the most common and used breed that we can find in our homes.
2. Sasanqua Camellia: Its leaves are darker and smaller than the previous leaves. The same goes for flowers, which are smaller and tend to bloom in the fall. It is unique because it is resistant to disease and drought and is very hardy.

There are many types of camellias, which vary in color or size.

If you choose to grow more than one species in your garden. You can be sure that the garden will be colorful all season long. All of your guests will be jealous as they get to enjoy an afternoon of outdoor beauty. While you drink and catch up Don’t forget that you can use the leaves to create drinks too. Some varieties can also be used as borders for gardens and hedges and can even be grown as bonsai.

Characteristics of camellia

When the first snow appears The best time to find these flowers. And there are many cultivated camellias and hybrids, as well as many other shrubs. Characteristics of this plant are:

• Its foliage is full of dark, shiny foliage in a very beautiful shade of green. It has a paler underside. This gives the plants structure, balance and design height that are totally appropriate for the garden. The leaves are uniformly oval shaped. The edge of the leaf is toothed at the tip.
• The simplest thing is five petals. and many stamens in bunches
• Double and semi-double have many more petals.It has a more closed appearance and may resemble peonies and roses.
• They grow slowlyAbout one foot per year
• Camellia size Depends on the variety Even if it’s a question. They can be between 2 and 4 meters tall.. Width is usually from 1 to 2 meters.
• Its shape is usually a dense upright shrub that has a pyramidal shape. Can be round or small.
• As for its flowers Often similar in size to a rose.Although they come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and colors. Even so The most common colors include red, yellow, white, and pink.. Its blooms can be double, semi-double and summer, up to 12 centimeters wide.
• Camellia is often considered an anchor plant.
• Easily spread by softwood polesair layer or graft
• This tree is a symbol of long life, good fortune, happiness…
• To make the camellia successful Add a specific fertilizer for this type of plant to the irrigation water.. It must be taken once in the spring and once in the fall.

Camellia care

To ensure the longevity of these trees and shrubs It has bright green flowers and leaves that can be found all year long. in order to grow properly You will need to provide suitable conditions for pruning. growth Good garden hygiene and fertilization

This tree is a symbol of long life, good fortune, and happiness.

The first step to making it look beautiful in your garden is to carefully observe the flowering time. Choose those with different flowering schedules so you can enjoy these plants for as long as possible.. Be careful and protect from strong winds. Whether it’s a cold wind or a hot wind, because if it’s a tall tree, it may need a pole to support it to prevent the wind from swinging around.

The difficulty with camellias when grown indoors is that they do not tolerate being in closed, hot spaces. So we must Maintain an environment with humidity greater than 60% and a temperature between 5-12°C..

Light is important to guarantee the success of your care. But you have to be careful not to expose it to direct sunlight. It is essential to pinch the tips of the branches to keep them alive and energetic. Place it in the shade. Protect from the sun and summer heat at all times. and take care not to let the soil dry out.

Camellia grows slowly. About one foot per year

Likewise, you must Feed carefully with a balanced fertilizer. After flowering, apply in wide circles around the plant’s drip line – placing it only around the trunk is a very common mistake. Fertilizer should also be used in moderation as it does not require many additional nutrients.

On the other hand, we must ensure constant watering, which does not mean that it will be wet. For it, Increase watering during flowering to ensure full bloom.. Don’t forget to remove dead and weak branches. You can use a special canned mix for camellias or azaleas for best results.

The most recommended watering is that during the summer we do it continuously. And in winter, watering will be more moderate. During the three months of flowering it will need very little water. So that the peduncle supports the weight of the flower buds and is strong. Good drainage and use warm water. Especially rain or mineral water because it does not contain lime is the key to proper operation.

You need to be careful of pests that can attack this plant.

It must be taken into account that japonica should be pruned after flowering in spring. In terms of pruning Sasanqua Camellia This should be done in early spring.That is before the flowers bloom.

Pest or disease

The loss of that leaf was not too much because it was just that. The oldest leaves fall.However, the risk still exists with dead leaves. Lots of stains or yellowing. Because it may be a sign of disease.

You need to be careful of pests that interfere with the normal development of camellias.. To avoid this problem Always try to look under leaves to control spider mites and scale insects. If you notice this on a tree Spray with insecticidal soap or alcohol.

During the three months of flowering it will need very little water.

Fungi such as petal blight can also appear on these types of shrubs. To help prevent it, it is recommended to use a rake to remove both fallen petals and flowers. Pestalizzia guepini can appear when the leaves have many raised spots.. Get rid of those leaves and use a fungicide.

On the other hand, check the soil and if you see the leaf veins starting to turn yellow. That means that maybe The soil pH may be too high.. Test the terrain and take necessary measures to put an end to this problem. You can visit an expert to help and advise you on any questions you may have.

The most common colors include red, yellow, white, and pink.

in the end, There may be small bumps. On the leaves because the camellia has rust.. to get rid of it Apply a topical fungicide that you can buy in specialized stores.

How to grow camellias

To plant this type of shrub correctly The first step is to dig a hole twice as deep and wide as the foundation.. However, small varieties can be grown in containers without problems.

Next, add the mixture to the bottom of the hole and remove it. After, Remove the plant from the container it was put in and place it in the center.. Gently tilt the soil down the side of the exposed roots to cover the plant. Do not cover the root ball. Finally, add water as soon as you plant.

during the summer Irrigation should be constant. And in winter, water should be more moderate.

Remember that the camellia must be planted slightly higher, that is, the top of the root ball should be flush with the soil surface. Do not plant them under plants with poor roots as their roots are superficial. It is best to plant it under the shade of a tall pine tree with tall roots.