Japanese Camellia Camellia japonica 'Moshe Dayan'

Water

Camellia japonica, commonly known as the Japanese camellia, prefers consistently moist but well-draining soil. It should be watered deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which often equates to watering once a week. However, the frequency may increase to 2-3 times per week during dry spells or hot weather. A good approach is to apply at least two gallons of water for mature plants at each watering, ensuring the entire root zone is moistened. It's vital to avoid over-watering, which can lead to root rot.

Light

Japanese camellias flourish best in partial shade, receiving a few hours of morning sun with protection from the intense afternoon rays. An ideal spot for Camellia japonica is an east-facing location that benefits from the soft morning light and prevents the harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch the foliage and flowers.

Temperature

The Japanese camellia thrives in temperate conditions and can typically handle temperatures as low as 20°F without damage, while they prefer a range between 34°F and 60°F for optimal growth. Camellia japonica can endure short periods of colder temperatures, but it's important to protect it from frost to prevent damage to the blossoms and foliage.

Pruning

Prune Japanese camellias immediately after they finish blooming to maintain shape and remove any dead or weak branches, which encourages fuller growth and better blooming the following season. Light pruning should be done annually, and more extensive reshaping should be undertaken every few years if necessary, always being mindful to leave sufficient leaves for continuous growth.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Japanese Camellia (Camellia japonica 'Moshe Dayan') thrives best in a well-draining, acidic soil mix with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. The ideal soil mix for this camellia should include organic components such as peat moss, pine bark, and perlite to ensure good aeration and moisture retention without waterlogging. Regularly check soil pH and adjust with sulfur or peat if it becomes too alkaline.

Repotting

Japanese Camellias should be repotted every 2-3 years to prevent root-bound conditions and replenish nutrients in the soil. It is best to repot in the spring just before the growing season begins. Over time as the plant matures, the frequency of repotting can decrease, but it is important to monitor the soil condition and root growth.

Humidity & Misting

Japanese Camellias prefer moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 40% and 60%. These conditions can be met in a garden environment with mulching and shading or indoors by placing a humidity tray under the pot or using a room humidifier. Maintaining proper humidity is critical for flowering and overall plant health.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright, indirect light and high humidity for indoor Camellia japonica.

• Outdoor

  Plant in part shade, sheltered, with moist, acidic soil for outdoor Camellias.

• Hardiness zone

  7-9 USDA

Life cycle

Camellia japonica 'Moshe Dayan', commonly known as Japanese Camellia, begins its life as a seed, which upon germination in favorable conditions of moist, well-drained acidic soil, and partial shade, emerges as a seedling. As the seedling grows, it develops into a young plant with glossy, evergreen leaves and begins to establish a sturdy root system. Progressing into maturity, the shrub produces buds in the late summer to autumn which will overwinter and blossom into large, showy flowers in late winter to spring. After pollination, typically by insects, the flowers develop into dry seed capsules that eventually open to release seeds for the next generation. Throughout its life, Japanese Camellia undergoes seasonal growth spurts and periods of dormancy, usually in response to temperature and light changes. With proper care, this evergreen can live for many years, often several decades, as it continues to mature and produce flowers annually.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most common method of propagating Camellia japonica 'Moshe Dayan', commonly known as the Japanese Camellia, is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This process typically takes place during the late summer. To propagate, a stem cutting of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long is taken from a healthy parent plant. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone to increase the chances of successful rooting. The cutting is then inserted into a pot filled with a mix of peat and perlite to provide aeration and moisture retention. The pot is placed in a warm, shaded area and kept consistently moist. With proper care, roots should develop within a few weeks, after which the new plant can gradually acclimate to more sunlight and eventually be transplanted.