Noteworthy CharacteristicsSmall tree with scented white flowers 2 to 3.5 inches across.

CareIn the garden, grow in moist but well-drained, humusy soil with an acidic pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Mulch with leaf mold or shredded bark to a depth of 2 to 3 inches. Plant so the top of the root ball is level with the soil. Camellias need partial or dappled shade in a sheltered site. Be sure to water in dry weather and fertilize in mid-spring. Prune after flowering by trimming back shoots that are growing in unwanted directions; remove dead and damaged branches in mid-spring. Indoors, grow in an acidic potting mix in bright filtered light.

PropagationTake 4-inch-long cuttings in late July or August and insert them into pots of coarse sand to which a very small amount of peat has been added.

ProblemsSpider mites, scale, canker.