Williamsii Camellia Camellia × williamsii 'Mary Christian'

Water

The Williamsii Camellia requires consistent moisture; water the plant deeply to ensure the soil is moist but not saturated. Ideally, water the plant with about 1 inch of water each week, but this may need to increase to 1.5 inches during periods of drought or very hot weather. During the winter, reduce the amount of water slightly, but do not allow the soil to dry out completely. It's essential to water the plant at its base and avoid wetting the foliage to prevent fungal diseases. If container-grown, ensure that excess water can drain freely to prevent root rot.

Light

Williamsii Camellias thrive in partial shade; they prefer a location that provides morning light and is protected from the intense afternoon sun. An ideal spot might be under the high, dappled shade of taller trees where they can receive bright indirect light. They can also adapt to growing in deeper shade, which makes them suitable for north-facing gardens or the east side of a building where they can get some morning light without the risk of sunburn.

Temperature

Williamsii Camellias prefer moderate temperature conditions, ideally between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can withstand minimum temperatures down to about 10 degrees Fahrenheit, but prolonged exposure to cold below 20 degrees can damage the plant. Similarly, prolonged high temperatures over 85 degrees Fahrenheit, especially combined with dry conditions, can be stressful for the plant.

Pruning

Prune your Williamsii Camellia to maintain shape and promote airflow, which can minimize disease risk, after it finishes flowering in the spring. Thin out dense branches and remove any dead or weak wood. Pruning is also a good time to reduce the size of the plant if needed. Be careful not to over-prune, as this can reduce flowering the following season.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Williamsii Camellias prefer acidic soils with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5; the best soil mix is well-draining and rich in organic matter. Use a mix comprising of one-third peat moss, one-third pine bark, and one-third perlite or sand to ensure proper drainage and aeration for the roots.

Repotting

Williamsii Camellias should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and encourage healthy growth. It's best to repot in the spring before the blooming period or in the fall after flowering has ceased.

Humidity & Misting

Williamsii Camellias thrive in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 40-60%. They benefit from the occasional misting if indoor air is dry, but avoid creating overly damp conditions that can lead to fungal issues.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright, indirect light and keep soil moist.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade, shelter from strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  7-9 USDA

Life cycle

Camellia × williamsii 'Mary Christian', commonly known as Williamsii camellia, begins its life cycle as a seed, which, upon germination, establishes a small seedling. The seedling then enters a vegetative stage, during which it develops roots, stems, and leaves. As the plant matures, it progresses to a phase of foliage expansion and stem elongation, eventually reaching maturity where it can support reproduction. The Williamsii camellia typically flowers in late winter to early spring, with blooms ranging from white to pink, a stage which attracts pollinators and marks the beginning of the reproductive cycle. Following pollination, the plant forms seed pods that, once mature, release seeds to begin the next generation. Throughout its life, the camellia will go through cycles of growth and dormancy, adapting to the changing seasons.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagating Camellia × williamsii 'Mary Christian', commonly known as Camellia, is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This is typically done in late summer, when the new growth has matured and begun to harden. Select a healthy stem that is about a quarter of an inch in diameter (around 6 millimeters) and cut a four to six-inch (10 to 15 cm) length just below a leaf node. Remove the lower leaves, leaving just a few at the top, and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting should then be placed in a pot filled with a moist mixture of peat and perlite. Covering the pot with a plastic bag or placing it in a greenhouse can create a humid environment conducive to rooting. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and wait for several weeks until the cutting has rooted, after which it can be transplanted into a larger pot or into the ground.