Species

Camellia sasanquaSasanqua Camellia

25 other cultivars

shrub

Slim 'n Trim Camellia

Camellia sasanqua 'Slim 'N Trim'

The Story

Plant Bio

Camellia sasanqua is a species of evergreen shrub known for its glossy foliage and profuse fall-to-winter blooms. They are generally more sun-tolerant and faster-growing than their C. japonica relatives.

'Slim 'n Trim' is distinguished by its exceptionally narrow, upright, and columnar growth habit, making it perfect for tight spaces. It produces an abundance of lavender-pink, semi-double flowers in autumn.

Uses & Benefits:

Its unique columnar form provides strong vertical interest in the landscape. The profusion of fall flowers adds color when most other plants are fading, and its glossy evergreen leaves provide year-round beauty.

Perfectly suited for creating a tall, narrow hedge or privacy screen in areas with limited horizontal space, such as along driveways, between houses, or in courtyard gardens. Also excellent as a formal accent.

The late-season blooms offer a valuable nectar source for bees and other pollinators that are still active in the autumn months.

SpeciesCamellia sasanquaSasanqua Camellia

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

120 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Very long-lived shrub

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic to pets and humans

Bloom period

Early fall – Late fall

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a location with acidic, well-drained soil and partial shade.
Dig a hole two to three times the width of the container.
Ensure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
Backfill with amended soil, gently firming it around the roots.
Water deeply immediately after planting to eliminate air pockets.
Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Pro Tip

Protect from harsh winter winds and afternoon sun in hotter climates to prevent leaf scorch and ensure best performance.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent water, especially during the first few years.
Mulch annually with pine bark or compost.
Fertilize in spring with a formula for acid-loving plants.
Prune after flowering to shape the plant and encourage dense growth.

Don't

Do not plant in alkaline or poorly drained soils.
Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, especially in summer.
Don't fertilize in the fall, as it can push tender new growth.
Avoid planting too deep; keep the root flare at soil level.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Elegant vertical accent for narrow spacesFormal evergreen screen or hedgeContainer specimen for patios and entryways

Companion Plants

Helleborus orientalis Fatsia japonica Acer palmatum Rhododendron Ophiopogon japonicus

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Slim 'n Trim Camellia questions

What zones can Slim 'n Trim Camellia grow in?

Slim 'n Trim Camellia is hardy in USDA Zones 7–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Slim 'n Trim Camellia deer resistant?

Yes — Slim 'n Trim Camellia is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Slim 'n Trim Camellia bloom?

Slim 'n Trim Camellia typically blooms in early fall through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Slim 'n Trim Camellia need full sun?

Slim 'n Trim Camellia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.