Japanese Camellia Camellia japonica 'Commander Mulroy'

Water

The Japanese camellia, known as 'Commander Mulroy,' should be watered deeply to ensure that the root zone is thoroughly moistened, generally requiring about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water weekly during the growing season. The frequency of watering may need to be increased during prolonged periods of dry weather or if the camellia is planted in well-draining soil that dries out quickly; however, it's important not to overwater, as camellias are sensitive to soggy conditions. Ensure the soil surface is slightly dry to the touch before adding water again. During the winter, reduce watering to every two to three weeks, providing enough water to prevent the soil from completely drying out. In any case, avoid light, frequent waterings, which do not encourage deep root growth and can promote root diseases.

Light

Japanese camellias like 'Commander Mulroy' thrive best in partial shade or filtered sunlight. They should be planted in a spot sheltered from direct afternoon sunlight, which can be too harsh and lead to leaf scorch. An ideal location is under tall trees that provide dappled sunlight or on the north or east side of a building, where they can receive bright morning light and protection from intense afternoon rays.

Temperature

Japanese camellias such as 'Commander Mulroy' prefer temperate conditions and can generally withstand temperatures as low as 20 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit but may suffer damage if temperatures drop below this range. The ideal temperature for promoting lush growth and bloom ranges from 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate short periods of higher temperatures but require adequate moisture and shade to endure hot summers.

Pruning

Prune Japanese camellias like 'Commander Mulroy' to shape the plant, remove dead or weak growth, and promote airflow, which prevents disease. The best time for pruning is just after flowering ends, typically in late winter or early spring. Prune sparingly, as camellias can take several years to recover from heavy pruning, and focus on thinning out crowded branches rather than cutting back the entire plant. Annual, light pruning is sufficient to keep the plant looking tidy and healthy.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Japanese Camellia 'Commander Mulroy' prefers well-draining, acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. An ideal soil mix would consist of equal parts pine bark, peat moss, and perlite, ensuring good aeration and moisture retention. Regularly test soil pH to maintain acidic conditions for optimal growth.

Repotting

The Japanese Camellia 'Commander Mulroy' should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and promote healthy growth. It's best to repot in the spring after flowering but before new growth begins, using soil with the same acidic pH conditions.

Humidity & Misting

Japanese Camellia 'Commander Mulroy' thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 50% to 80%. Consistent humidity fosters lush growth and vibrant blooms while helping to prevent bud drop.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright, indirect light and keep soil moist.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade with shelter from strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  7-9 USDA

Life cycle

Camellia japonica 'Commander Mulroy', commonly known as the Japanese Camellia, begins its life as a seed that germinates in moist, well-draining soil, usually in early spring. The seedling then develops into a young plant with a set of true leaves, and as it matures, it forms a bushy evergreen shrub with glossy, dark green leaves. Throughout late winter to early spring, the plant enters its reproductive stage, flowering with large, showy blossoms, typically red to deep pink in color. After pollination, the blooms give way to seed capsules that ripen in fall, releasing seeds to give rise to new plants and continuing the cycle. Over time, the Japanese Camellia can develop into a substantial shrub or small tree, needing regular pruning to maintain its shape and encourage more prolific blooming. With proper care, this camellia can live for many years, even decades, as it gradually grows and goes through its annual cycle of growth, flowering, and seed production.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Early Spring

• Camellia japonica 'Commander Mulroy', commonly known as the Japanese camellia, is most effectively propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings. This method typically begins in late summer when the new growth has begun to harden. A cutting should be taken from a healthy branch, measuring about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) in length. Leaves are removed from the lower half of the cutting to expose the nodes where roots will develop. The cutting end is often dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth and then inserted into a well-draining soil mix. A plastic bag or a dome is sometimes placed over the cutting to maintain high humidity. The cutting should be kept in a warm, bright spot out of direct sunlight, and in a few weeks to months, it should develop roots and can be transplanted. This method is favored due to its simplicity and decent success rate.