Description
Sometimes referred to as Christmas Camellias, the sasanqua varieties of Camellia are native to the evergreen, coastal forests of southern Japan. Introduced by Dutch traders into Europe in 1869.The Japanese use the leaves of Camellia sasanqua to make tea, and the seeds are pressed into tea seed oil for use as a lubricant and in cooking and cosmetics.
Winter hardy to USDA Zones 6b-9 where this evergreen shrub is typically grown in moist, acidic, organically rich, well-drained soils with consistent moisture in part shade locations. Established plants do well with moderate but even moisture. Plants appreciate protection from direct hot summer afternoon sun. They often thrive in sun-dappled part shade conditions under the protection of tree canopies. Protect from strong winds. Apply a root mulch (leaves or shredded bark). Prune after flowering. Prune to thin branching and to control size and shape. Plants may be effectively grown in tubs or other large containers.
