There are countless varieties and hybrids of camellia, which belongs to the tea bush family, and their flowering times vary considerably due to breeding. There are varieties that bloom in September or October, while others only open their buds in May.
When is the camellia blooming time?
The flowering period of camellias varies depending on the variety and ranges from September to May. A cold period with temperatures below 10°C to 15°C is required for the plant to flower. Location, sufficient water and nutrients also influence flowering.
For the beautiful flowers to appear at all, the sensitive camellia needs good care and also a suitable location with the right mix of sun and shade. If this plant does not feel comfortable, the buds will not open, turn brown or fall off prematurely.
The flowering period of some camellia varieties:
- Camelia sasanqua: small white to dark pink flowers, September to December
- “Winter's Joy”: semi-double light pink flowers from November to December
- “Winter’s Snowman”: snow-white flowers from December to January
- “Adolphe Audusson”: dark red flowers from January
- “Spring Festival”: salmon pink to pink flowers, lighter in the middle, from the end of January, beginning of February
- “April Dawn”: white-pink spotted flowers from February to April
- “Barbara Morgan”: wavy red flowers, from February
- “Erebo”: rich red, large flowers, from March
Can I somehow influence the flowering time?
In order for a camellia to bloom at all, it needs a cold period with temperatures below 10 °C to 15 °C. Bud formation often begins shortly after flowering, but is then accelerated by the cold. However, it is also important to have a constant supply of water and nutrients.
You can delay the flowering period a little by later or longer cold temperatures. However, very few varieties are winter hardy. Therefore, make sure you have adequate protection from frost or overwinter your camellia frost-free.
Tip
The camellia is not just a houseplant. If it is permanently in the living room, it will not bloom.