Camellia 'Candy Apple' Camellia japonica 'Candy Apple'

Water

For Camellia japonica, commonly known as Japanese Camellia, the soil should be kept moist but never waterlogged. It is best to water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically means watering once a week. Depending on the size of your plant and the weather conditions, you might find yourself watering with approximately 1-2 gallons of water each time. It’s important not to let the plant dry out completely, but be cautious of over-watering as it can lead to root rot. During the winter months, reduce watering frequency as the plant’s growth slows down.

Light

Japanese Camellia thrives in partial shade to dappled sunlight. It is best situated in a spot that gets morning light and is shielded from the intense afternoon sun. These light conditions emulate the plant's natural habitat under forest canopies. Ensure enough diffused light reaches the camellia to encourage healthy growth without exposing it to strong, direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.

Temperature

Japanese Camellia prefers temperate environments and is best kept in temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F. While it can withstand temperatures briefly dipping down to around 20°F, frost can damage the buds and flowers. Camellias generally prefer cooler nighttime temperatures, ideally around 50°F to 60°F. Avoid sudden temperature shifts and protect the plant from extreme cold or heat.

Pruning

Pruning of Japanese Camellia should be done to shape the plant, remove dead or weak wood, and encourage airflow, which can prevent disease. The best time to prune is just after the blooms have faded in the spring, but before the new bud set begins. Prune every year or every other year, depending on the plant's growth and your desired shape.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Camellia japonica, also known as Japanese Camellia, thrives best in acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The ideal soil mix is well-draining and rich in organic matter; a blend of 2 parts peat moss, 1 part perlite, and 1 part pine bark would be optimal for 'Candy Apple' to grow robustly.

Repotting

Japanese camellias like 'Candy Apple' usually need repotting every 2-3 years to ensure they have enough space to grow and adequate nutrients. The best time to repot is in late winter or early spring, before the growing season begins.

Humidity & Misting

'Candy Apple' variety Japanese camellia prefers high humidity levels, ideally between 50% to 60%. If indoor air is too dry, consider using a humidifier or placing a water tray near the plant to enhance the humidity.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Japanese Camellia in bright, indirect light indoors.

• Outdoor

  Plant in part-shade, shelter from strong winds outdoors.

• Hardiness zone

  7-9 USDA

Life cycle

The common camellia (Camellia japonica 'Candy Apple') begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in a warm and moist environment to produce a small seedling. This seedling grows into a juvenile plant with increasing leaf number and size, establishing a root system. As it matures, the camellia develops woody stems and a robust foliage canopy, entering its vegetative stage. Upon reaching sexual maturity, the plant produces buds that bloom into large, ornate, rose-like red flowers typically in late winter to spring. After pollination, these flowers develop into brown, globe-shaped seed capsules containing the seeds for the next generation. The camellia's life cycle is perennial, allowing it to bloom annually for many years with proper care and favorable conditions.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Summer

• For Camellia japonica 'Candy Apple', commonly known as the Japanese Camellia, the most popular method of propagation is by semi-hardwood cuttings. This is typically undertaken in late summer to early autumn when the plant's growth has started to harden but is not yet fully woody. To propagate, a cutting of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) is taken, making sure that it includes at least two to three sets of leaves. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end may be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting is then placed in a well-draining potting mix, and the environment is kept humid with consistent but not overly wet soil. Covering the cutting with a plastic bag or using a mist system can help maintain humidity. Roots typically develop in several weeks to a few months, after which the new plant can be transplanted.