Hardiness Zone for a Camellia Plant

Camellia japonica

• Camellia japonica is the most popular camellia species, according to the U.S. National Arboretum. Native to Asia, where it has been cultivated for centuries, C. japonica grows best in hardiness zones 7 through 9. Camellia japonica is more picky about its hardiness zone than other varieties, and is most suited to Southern climates with mild temperatures. However, they do need low nighttime temperatures to produce the largest blooms, according to the book "Spectacular Container Plants." Camellia japonica cultivars that are known for higher cold tolerance include Berenice Boddy, Governor Mouton, Kumasaka, Lady Clare and Pink Perfection.

Camellia Oleifera

• The National Arboretum, located in Washington, D.C., suffered tremendous losses during the winters of 1976 and 1977. Low temperatures fell to about -19 degrees with dry, intense wind. Camellia sasanqua varieties died during the first summer, and camellia japonica varieties suffered severe injury. One species, however, camellia oleifera, managed to survive. The cultivar was named Lu Shan Snow in reference to its origin in northern China. Since then, camellia oleifera has been used to create camellia hybrids that can be grown in the Midwest, as well as the northeast coastal areas.

Planting Tips

• In addition to planting in the right hardiness zone, it's important to plant camellias at the right time of year. Exact planting times vary based on your specific location and the type of camellia you choose. However, they are generally planted in late fall to early spring, according to the American Camellia Society. Avoid using large amounts of fertilizer, since camellias are susceptible to fertilizer burn, and don't plant in soil sites that receive intense afternoon sun.

Care

• Care for your camellias to increase flowering and improve overall plant health. If you live in a cold climate, provide shelter from wind and intense sun exposure. Prune camellias right after flowering to optimize growth. According to the National Arboretum, regular deep watering is especially important in the summer after planting. Look out for root disease, which is a common camellia problem. Camellias are not susceptible to insects, and proper care will make an insect problem even less likely.