I had a lady email a photo of a beautiful camellia bloom last week. It’s hard to believe that there are some shrubs blooming now even with the crazy weather we’ve experienced over the past few months. Large colorful blooms make camellias a favorite in southern landscapes in the early spring. They are especially popular now because most flowering plants are still dormant.

Camellia sasanqua and Camellia japonica are the two primary camellia species grown in North Carolina. Camellia japonica varieties have a larger bloom in late winter to early spring. Also, the typical camellia japonica leaf is larger than the leaf of sasanqua camellias.

These plants are somewhat exacting to exposure and drainage and grow best in well-drained, sightly acid soils (pH of 5.0-6.), rich in humus. Most soils in Rowan County would benefit from additional humus or organic matter such as ground pine bark, peat moss, or well-rotted sawdust or shavings.

Camellias, especially japonicas, grow best in filtered light, away from warm southern exposures. Excessive heat from early morning southern exposures promote premature growth which often results in cold damage. Locate camellias on a northern or western exposure to prevent early growth.

Moisture is critical for survival during the first three years after planting. Camellias are shallow rooted and should not be allowed to dry out.

Further, japonicas are acid-loving plants, with similar nutritional requirements as azaleas and rhododendron. Specialty azalea/camellia fertilizers are available at garden shops and retail outlets. Slow-release fertilizers work well because they seldom burn plants when properly applied. Avoid placing wood ashes near camellias or azaleas since the ashes raise the soil pH.

Camellias are not without problems. Temperatures below 10 degrees may cause winter injury, especially following unseasonable weather. Plants may be protected by covering them with bed sheets or burlap. Avoid late fertilization with high nitrogen fertilizers.

Scale insects may be a problem in early summer. Check the underneath of leaves frequently and spray with a recommended insecticide to control these pests.

Darrell Blackwelder is the retired horticulture agent and director with the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service in Rowan County. Contact him at  deblackw@ncsu.edu.