Camellia japonica — the camellia, a winter-flowering shrub

The Camellia japonica is one of the most refined shrubs there is. Its perfect flowers — often compared to roses — bloom in the middle of winter, when gardens and balconies are dormant. Its evergreen, dark green, glossy foliage remains decorative all year round.

Our varieties of Camellia japonica

The Camellia japonica 'Bonomiana' produces large double flowers, in a soft pink veined with white, with a regular and symmetrical shape that makes it one of the most classic and appreciated varieties. The Camellia japonica 'Black Lace' is more dramatic: its very dark red, almost black double flowers create a striking contrast with the shiny foliage. The Camellia japonica 'Nuccio's Gem' is the quintessential white variety: its pure white, perfectly layered flowers evoke a high-fashion camellia. Together, these three varieties cover the classic camellia palette: pink, deep red, and immaculate white.

Winter blooming: the camellia’s great advantage

The Camellia japonica blooms between January and April, depending on the variety and climate. It is one of the few shrubs to offer such a generous and spectacular bloom in the heart of winter. Each flower lasts from several days to several weeks, and the flowering period extends over 6 to 8 weeks. On a balcony or terrace, a flowering camellia brings a touch of color and elegance to a time when everything is gray. Find our other winter-flowering plants in the flowering plants collection.

Growing a camellia in a pot

Camellias grow very well in pots, making them perfectly suited to urban living. Choose a container at least 40 cm in diameter with good drainage. The crucial point: the potting mix. Camellia is an acid-loving plant — it needs ericaceous soil or an acidic mix (pH 5 to 6.5). Never use standard alkaline potting soil, as its leaves would quickly turn yellow. Repotting every 2 to 3 years into a slightly larger pot with fresh ericaceous soil restores its vigor. Our article when and how to repot guides you through this step.

Position: partial shade and cool conditions

Camellias prefer partial shade. In too sunny a spot, especially in the afternoon during summer, the foliage can burn and flower buds dry out before opening. A north- or east-facing location or under a deciduous tree is ideal: shade in summer, filtered light in winter when the plant blooms. On a balcony, place it sheltered from direct afternoon sun. Discover our other plants suited to these conditions in the shady balcony plants collection.

Care and watering

Camellias like cool, moist soil that is never waterlogged. Water regularly, especially in summer and while flower buds are forming (August to October) — a lack of water at this time compromises flowering. Preferably use rainwater or soft water to keep the soil acidic. Mulching the surface of the pot (with pine bark, for example) keeps the soil cool and acidic. Our complete watering guide details best practices.

Hardiness and winter protection

The Camellia japonica is hardy down to -10°C to -15°C depending on the variety. In pots, roots are more exposed to frost: protect the container with a frost cloth or bubble wrap sleeve in case of prolonged frost. Place the pot against a wall sheltered from the wind and elevate it to avoid direct contact with frozen ground. Flower buds are the most sensitive part: a sudden frost can brown and drop them. Find our other hardy shrubs in the hardy and resilient collection.

Pairing camellias on a balcony

Camellias naturally pair well with other acid-loving and shade plants. Combine them with fruit trees like blueberry (which also prefers acidic soil), climbers like clematis or star jasmine to cover walls, and compact shrubs like Viburnum tinus for an evergreen backdrop. Explore our balconies and terraces and mini shrubs and urban perennials collections to complete your arrangement.