If you want to add the Blood of China Camellia to your garden, you need to know how to care for it. This article will tell you everything you need to know about Blood of China Camellia care.
| Botanical Name | Camellia japonica |
| Common Name | Blood of China Camellia |
| Plant Type | Evergreen |
| Flower Color | A round, many-petaled flower that appears in shades of pink and white. |
| Size When Mature | 8 – 13 feet |
| Bloom Time | Spring |
| Sun Requirements | Full or partial shade |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | 7 – 9 |
| Soil PH Range | Acidic or neutral |
| Soil Type | Acidic, clay or sand that drains well |
| Water Needs | Low |
| Native Area | China |
What You Need To Know About Blood of China Camellia
The Blood of China Camellia is a beautiful but somewhat finicky plant. Native to the mountainous regions of China, this Camellia requires dedication and a bit of extra care to thrive.
The fragrance of the Blood of China Camellia is truly unique. It has a deep, rich aroma that is both floral and earthy. The scent is said to be calming, making it a popular choice for perfumes and candles.
This flower is said to have curative powers and is often used in balms and ointments. The Blood of China Camellia is known for its ability to improve circulation and reduce inflammation.
The Blood of China Camellia flower blooms in early spring. The flowers are a deep red color and are very beautiful. The leaves of the plant are dark green and glossy.
How to Care for Blood of China Camellia
Here’s everything you need to know about growing and caring for a thriving Blood of China Camellia.
Light
The Blood of China Camellia thrives in sunny environments. It prefers full sun, but it can also tolerate partial sun.
If you are thinking of adding one to the inside of your home, be sure to place it near a window where it will receive plenty of light throughout the day. It is also important to rotate it regularly, that way the plant receives sunlight from all angles.
Water and Soil Needs
The Blood of China camellia thrives in acidic soil with a pH of around 5.0-6.5, with good drainage. If your soil is not naturally acidic, you can achieve the desired pH level by adding peat moss or elemental sulfur to the planting hole.
Be sure to keep the soil moist, but not soggy. The best way to do this is to water deeply and then allow the top layer of soil to dry out before watering again.
This Camellia is sensitive to temperature changes. Water it with lukewarm water to prevent the roots from shock.
Temperature Requirements
Camellias are sensitive to cold weather and should be protected from frost. These flowers grow best in USDA zones 7-10.
In colder zones, 6 and below, it’s best to grow Blood of China Camellias in containers that can be brought indoors during the winter months.
Fertilizer
When it comes to fertilizer, less is more with camellias. Too much fertilizer can burn the roots and damage the plant.
A light application of organic fertilizer in early spring is all that is needed. Just be sure to follow the directions on the package carefully.
10-10-10 or 8-8-8 slow-release fertilizers are popular choices for these acid-loving flowers.
Common Diseases
While camellias are generally hardy, they can be susceptible to certain diseases.
Some of the most common diseases of this flower include camellia petal blight, camellia stem rot, and camellia root rot.
Petal blight is a fungal disease that causes the flowers to brown and wilt, while stem rot can cause the stems to become dark and brittle. Root rot is another serious problem that can kill the plant.
By understanding these common diseases, gardeners can take steps to prevent them from occurring in their gardens.
Blood of China Camellias Propagation
Propagating the Blood of China Camellia is relatively easy and can be done through seed, cuttings, or layering.
Seed propagation is the easiest method, but it can take several years for the plant to bloom. For faster results, cuttings or layering are recommended.
Cuttings should be taken from a healthy plant and placed in moist soil. Layering involves bending a stem of the camellia so that it touches the ground and covering it with soil. With proper care, both methods will result in new plants within a year.
The Blood of China Camellia is a beautiful addition to any garden, and propagating it is a satisfying way to create new plants.