Sasanqua Camellia Camellia sasanqua 'Plantation Pink'

Water

Sasanqua camellias, like 'Plantation Pink', should be watered deeply and thoroughly to maintain moist but not waterlogged soil, particularly during dry spells. Depending on the climate and weather conditions, watering might be necessary once or twice a week. Generally, aim to provide about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per week during the growing season, reducing frequency in cooler months. Always check the top few inches of soil for dryness before watering. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot, so ensure good soil drainage.

Light

Sasanqua camellias, including the 'Plantation Pink' variety, thrive in partial shade with some morning sun and afternoon shade. They can tolerate full sun in cooler climates but prefer protection from the intense midday sun. The best spot for these plants is one where they receive filtered light or are shaded by taller trees that provide a dappled sunlight effect.

Temperature

Sasanqua camellias, such as 'Plantation Pink', prefer moderate temperatures and can generally tolerate conditions between 20 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. They do best in a temperature range of 60 to 70 degrees but can survive short periods of colder weather down to 20 degrees. Protection from extreme cold and hot temperatures helps maintain plant health and flower quality.

Pruning

Prune 'Plantation Pink' sasanqua camellias immediately after blooming to maintain plant shape and encourage bushier growth. Light pruning every year or more substantial pruning every two to three years can be appropriate, depending on the plant's growth and desired size. The best time for pruning is late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Sasanqua Camellia prefers acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The best soil mix is well-draining and rich in organic matter; a combination of 1/3 pine bark, 1/3 garden soil, and 1/3 peat moss is ideal. Ensure the planting mix is kept consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Repotting

Sasanqua Camellias should be repotted every 2-3 years. Choose a slightly larger pot each time to accommodate root growth. The best time for repotting is in late winter or early spring before the growing season starts.

Humidity & Misting

Sasanqua Camellias thrive in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 50% and 60%. These humidity conditions support their growth and flower development without extra watering measures specifically for humidity control.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Use acidic soil, indirect light, and keep above 50% humidity.

• Outdoor

  Full to partial sun, well-drained acidic soil, protect from cold winds.

• Hardiness zone

  7-9 USDA

Life cycle

The life of a 'Plantation Pink' sasanqua camellia begins as a seed, which, when planted and germinated, becomes a seedling. The seedling grows into a juvenile plant, focusing on developing its root system and foliage. As it matures, the sasanqua camellia enters the vegetative stage, where it grows larger and starts to form its characteristic evergreen leaves. Once it has reached maturity, typically after a few years, it enters the flowering stage, producing delicate pink blossoms usually in the fall or early winter. After pollination, the flowers develop into seed pods, completing the reproductive cycle. The plant then continues to grow and cycle through seasonal blooming each year, with proper care and favorable conditions allowing it to live and thrive for several decades.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Early Spring

• Propogation: Camellia sasanqua 'Plantation Pink', commonly known as Sasanqua camellia, is typically propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. The optimal time for taking cuttings is during the late summer or early fall, when the plant has finished its primary growth phase and the wood is not too tender or too hard. For this method, cuttings approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) long are taken from the current year's growth. The lower leaves are removed, and the base of the cutting is dipped in a rooting hormone to encourage root development. Then, the cutting is planted in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring that the leaf nodes, where roots are most likely to develop, are covered. The soil should be kept moist, and the cuttings should be placed in a warm environment with indirect light. With proper care, roots typically develop within a few weeks to a few months, after which the new plants can be gradually acclimated to normal growing conditions and eventually transplanted outdoors.