Camellia Flower: Care, Meaning & Characteristics

With its elegant appearance, winter blooming period, and symbolic meanings, the Camellia flower is a beloved ornamental plant in gardens and homes alike. But what exactly is the Camellia? How is it grown? What does it symbolize, and what are its varieties?

rnrn

In this guide, you'll find everything you need to know about the care, features, types, and meaning of the Camellia flower.

rn
Camellia Flower: Care, Meaning & Characteristics
19 August 2025
5 Minutes

What Is the Camellia Flower?

rnrn

The Camellia is an evergreen flowering plant native to East Asia, especially Japan, China, and Korea. The most well-known species is Camellia japonica, widely cultivated for its showy, rose-like flowers and glossy green leaves.

rnrn

Camellia Flower Characteristics

rnrn
    rn
  • rn

    Scientific Name: Camellia japonica

    rn
  • rn
  • rn

    Height: Can grow between 1–3 meters

    rn
  • rn
  • rn

    Leaves: Thick, dark green, and glossy

    rn
  • rn
  • rn

    Flower Colors: White, pink, red, or variegated

    rn
  • rn
  • rn

    Bloom Time: Late winter to early spring

    rn
  • rn
  • rn

    Ideal Climate: Mild temperatures, filtered sunlight

    rn
  • rn
  • rn

    Soil Preference: Slightly acidic, well-drained, rich in organic matter

    rn
  • rn
rnrn

Symbolism and Meaning of the Camellia Flower

rnrn

???? What does the Camellia symbolize?

rnrn

Different colors of the Camellia carry unique meanings:

rnrn
    rn
  • rn

    Red Camellia: Passion, deep love

    rn
  • rn
  • rn

    White Camellia: Purity, admiration, faithfulness

    rn
  • rn
  • rn

    Pink Camellia: Romance, affection, admiration

    rn
  • rn
rnrn

???? Cultural Symbolism

rnrn
    rn
  • rn

    In Japanese culture, the Camellia symbolizes humility and respect.

    rn
  • rn
  • rn

    In China, it represents eternal love.

    rn
  • rn
  • rn

    In Victorian Europe, it was seen as a symbol of hidden or unspoken admiration.

    rn
  • rn
rnrn

Popular Camellia Flower Varieties

rnrn

Japanese Camellia (Camellia japonica)

rnrn

Most common and widely grown variety, ideal for gardens and large pots.

rnrn

Red Camellia

rnrn

Represents strong emotions and is often used in romantic arrangements.

rnrn

White Camellia

rnrn

Symbolizes elegance and purity, popular in bridal bouquets.

rnrn

Pink Camellia

rnrn

Soft and gentle, associated with admiration and gentle love.

rnrn

How to Care for a Camellia Flower

rnrn

☀️ Light & Temperature

rnrn
    rn
  • rn

    Prefers bright but indirect sunlight

    rn
  • rn
  • rn

    Avoid placing it in full midday sun or freezing temperatures

    rn
  • rn
rnrn

???? Potting & Position

rnrn
    rn
  • rn

    Use wide, shallow pots to accommodate its shallow root system

    rn
  • rn
  • rn

    Choose a sheltered spot protected from wind and extreme sun

    rn
  • rn
rnrn

Watering and Feeding Camellia Plants

rnrn
    rn
  • rn

    Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy

    rn
  • rn
  • rn

    Frequency: 2–3 times per week in summer; once a week in winter

    rn
  • rn
  • rn

    Fertilizing: Use acidic liquid fertilizers during spring and summer

    rn
  • rn
rnrn

Pruning & Propagating Camellia

rnrn

✂️ Pruning

rnrn
    rn
  • rn

    Best done right after flowering in early spring

    rn
  • rn
  • rn

    Remove weak or inner crossing branches to improve airflow

    rn
  • rn
rnrn

???? Propagation

rnrn
    rn
  • rn

    By Cuttings: Semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer

    rn
  • rn
  • rn

    By Seeds: Rarely used; slow and less reliable

    rn
  • rn
rnrn

When Does the Camellia Bloom?

rnrn
    rn
  • rn

    Bud formation: Begins in autumn (October–November)

    rn
  • rn
  • rn

    Full bloom: Peaks between January and March

    rn
  • rn
  • rn

    Flowering period: Can last 4–6 weeks with proper winter care

    rn
  • rn
rnrn

???? Bonus: Camellia Flower Prices

rnrn

Camellia prices vary based on variety, size, and location:

rnrn
    rn
  • rn

    Small potted Camellias: ~150–400 TRY

    rn
  • rn
  • rn

    Large outdoor varieties: 500 TRY and up
    rn Prices may vary seasonally and are often discounted during garden center sales.

    rn
  • rn
rnrn

Conclusion

rnrn

The Camellia flower is not just beautiful—it's rich in meaning, adaptable, and perfect for both beginners and experienced gardeners. With proper care, it rewards you with vibrant blooms even during winter months.

rnrn

Whether you prefer a red Camellia’s passion, a white Camellia’s elegance, or a pink Camellia’s charm, this plant brings color, symbolism, and serenity to any space.

rnrn

For expert advice and the best plant selection, visit Cem Botanik Blog and start growing your own Camellia today.

rn
Camellia Flower: Care, Meaning & CharacteristicsCamellia Flower: Care, Meaning & CharacteristicsCamellia Flower: Care, Meaning & CharacteristicsCamellia Flower: Care, Meaning & Characteristics
Camellia Flower: Care, Meaning & Characteristics

Blog

Garden Landscaping Application
25 August 2024
2 Minutes

Garden Landscaping Application

Garden Landscaping Application Services: Create Your Dream Garden with Cem Botanik Detail
Landscape Arrangement
25 August 2024
2 Minutes

Landscape Arrangement

Landscape Arrangement Services: Adding Value to Nature with Cem Botanik Detail
Landscaping Plants
25 August 2024
3 Minutes

Landscaping Plants

Autumn Garden Maintenance: Prepare Your Garden for Winter Detail
Camellia Flower: Care, Meaning & Characteristics

Contact Information

Contact us to integrate nature into your projects. Our expert team is here to answer all your questions and guide you through every step of your journey. You can easily reach us via our contact form, phone, or email.
Our Address
Çubuklu Mah. Orhan Veli Kanık Cad. Eyüp Yavuz İş Merkezi, No:39 Kat4 Kavacık, 34810 Beykoz/İstanbul