Ornamental plants should, first and foremost, be beautiful, which can definitely be said about the camellia. In the family garden, other properties such as toxicity and need for care also count. Here the camellia can at least score points with its non-toxicity for humans.
Is camellia poisonous to people and animals?
The camellia is non-toxic to humans and can be safely planted in the family garden. It is considered slightly toxic to horses due to the caffeine it contains, but they would have to consume large quantities to cause a harmful effect.
However, the camellia is a bit demanding in terms of location and care. Nevertheless, it is very suitable for the family garden, provided you plant the shrub in a bright spot with slightly acidic soil, well protected from wind and frost. Here the need for care is kept within manageable limits. However, the camellia is not hardy and depends on adequate winter protection or a frost-free winter quarters.
Camellia is said to be slightly poisonous to horses because of the caffeine it contains. However, in order to have a significant effect, the animals would have to consume such large quantities that damage is very unlikely. So enjoy the splendor of the colors during the flowering period instead of worrying unnecessarily.
Can camellia be used to make tea?
Although the camellia (bot. Camellia japonica) is actually related to the tea bush (bot. Camellia sinensis), it is only cultivated as an ornamental plant. Apparently the Chinese sold the camellia to Europeans as a real tea bush. With this ruse they wanted to maintain their monopoly on tea. In fact, the camellia seeds are said to contain oil, which was used in ancient times to protect Japanese knives and weapons from corrosion.
The most important things in brief:
- related to the tea bush
- non-toxic to humans, but not suitable for tea production
- may contain caffeine
- Classified as slightly toxic to horses
Tip
You can plant the beautifully blooming camellia in your family garden without any worries. However, since it is not winter hardy, ensure there is sufficient protection from cold wind and frost.