Shi shi camellia is an evergreen shrub that can reach up to 10 feet in height. It has dark green leaves and its flowers can be either white or pink. The plant is native to China and Japan and has been cultivated for centuries for its beautiful flowers.
Related plant:
Hydrangea Paniculata Diamant Rouge
Related plant:
Wax Myrtle Hedge
About soil condition, shi shi camellia (Camellia sinensis) grows best in slightly acidic, well-drained soils with consistent moisture. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade will result in leggy growth and fewer flowers. It does not do well in clay soils that stay wet for long periods.
Not too different with other camellias, the shi shi camellia requires full sun to partial shade in order to flourish. If you live in an area with very hot summers, it's best to plant this camellia in a spot that gets afternoon shade. It's also important to make sure the plant has good drainage.
The temperature needs to be just right for the shi shi camellia to bloom - not too hot and not too cold. The ideal temperature is around 68 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature is too hot, the flowers will wilt and if it is too cold, the buds will not open.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50%. If the humidity surrounding the plant drops below 40%, the leaves will start to turn brown and drop off. The flowers will also suffer if the humidity is too low, as they will not be as vibrant and may even drop off the plant prematurely.
Discussing fertilizer, this plant does best with a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10. Fertilize every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season. If you live in an area with no freeze-thaw cycles, you may fertilize year-round. Be sure to apply fertilizer to moist soil, not dry or wet leaves, and water it in well. Withholding fertilizer during the winter months is recommended. When it comes to watering, camellias like evenly moist soil. They dont like to be too wet or too dry. An easy way to check if your camellia needs water is to stick your finger in the soil. If the top inch of soil is dry, its time to water. Water slowly and deeply, until water is coming out of the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot. Camellias also like humidity, so if you live in a dry climate, consider placing the pot on a tray of pebbles and water.
Pruning helps to keep your shi shi camellia healthy and looking its best. You can prune your camellia after it blooms in late winter or early spring. Begin by removing any dead or damaged branches. Then, cut back any long or leggy branches. Finally, shape the plant by trimming any stray branches.
Propagation Shi shi camellia can be propagated by seed, division, or cuttings. When propagating by seed, it is best to sow the seeds in the fall. For division or cuttings, shi shi camellia can be divided or cut in the spring or fall.
Usually, the plant growth rate is determined by the cultivar, soil type, and environment. However, the average plant grows between 10 and 20 cm per year. If the plant is in ideal conditions, it can grow up to 30 cm per year.
Common problems for this kind of plant are fungal diseases, such as leaf spots, blight, and root rot. These diseases are often caused by wet or humid conditions. To prevent these diseases, it is important to plant the camellia in well-drained soil and to avoid overhead watering.
Source:
Camellias for Texas Gardens - Texas A&M University
Pruning Camellias | Mississippi State University Extension Service
Algal Leaf Spot Common on Magnolias and Camellias
