Camellia reticulata

Common Names

Southern Mountain Camellia, Nanshancha, To-Tsubaki

Summary

Originating in southwestern China, particularly Yunnan and Sichuan, this evergreen shrub or small tree forms a loose, arching growth habit and can reach up to 10–15 m in height, with elliptic to oblong-elliptic, net-veined leaves; flowers appear at branch tips, are large (about 7–10 cm across), and range from soft to deep pink or red (occasionally near white), with five to eight petals that may be indented, producing striking waxy blossoms; blooming occurs mainly in late winter to spring.

In cultivation it prefers loose, acidic, organic, well-drained soil with partial shade and protection from hot afternoon sun and cold winds; it requires regular moisture and summer irrigation and is hardy to USDA zones 8a–10b while being frost sensitive; suitable uses include woodland gardens, specimen plantings, backgrounds, or hedges, and it can be grown in tubs or large containers; pruning should be light after flowering, and attention to pests and diseases (such as scale, aphids, mites, and root rot) is advised.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

8-10 feet

Spread

6-8 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 8a-10b

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally partial shade, established shrubs tolerate full sun.

Soil Type

Acidic, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.

Soil Drainage

Moist, well-drained, acidic soil

Soil pH

5.5-6.8

Bloom Color

Red, pink, white, lavender, and purple in some cultivars

Bloom Time

Spring

Foliage Color

Green

Fall Foliage Color

No fall foliage color; evergreen leaves year-round.

Leaf Lifecycle

Evergreen broadleaf

Growth Rate

Varies by cultivar; some selections are slow growers

Seasons of Interest

Spring and Winter

Propagation Methods

Seeds and Cuttings

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees