Species

Camellia japonicaJapanese Camellia

23 other cultivars

shrub RHS Award

Lady Vansittart Camellia

Camellia japonica 'Lady Vansittart'

Same species

Species

Camellia japonicaJapanese Camellia

23 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

120 inches

Width

96 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moderate to high

Lifespan

Long-lived evergreen shrub

Native To

Japan, China, Korea

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Camellia japonica is a broadleaf evergreen shrub prized for its large, showy flowers in late winter to spring and glossy, dark green leaves. They prefer sheltered locations with acidic, well-drained soil. A unique Victorian-era cultivar, 'Lady Vansittart' has semi-double flowers with wavy-edged petals, typically white or pale pink striped with rose. The foliage is also distinctive, often holly-like and twisted.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

A true collector's item, 'Lady Vansittart' offers unique beauty with its candy-striped flowers and unusual, twisted foliage. It provides year-round interest and a touch of historic elegance to the garden.

Its upright, somewhat open habit allows it to be integrated into mixed borders without overwhelming neighboring plants. The flowers are lovely in arrangements, where their unique markings can be appreciated up close.

The mid-spring flowers provide nectar for pollinators. The plant's structure offers shelter for birds, and its interesting foliage adds to the textural diversity of a wildlife-friendly garden.

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a site with morning sun and afternoon shade, protected from harsh winds.
Amend soil with organic matter to ensure it is acidic and well-draining.
Dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball.
Set the plant so the top of the root ball is slightly above soil level.
Backfill with amended soil, water thoroughly to settle, and create a water well.
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of pine straw or bark mulch.

Pro Tip

Plant high, with the top of the root ball slightly above soil level, to ensure excellent drainage and prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells in summer and fall.
Use an acid-based fertilizer formulated for camellias or azaleas.
Mulch annually to protect roots, conserve moisture, and suppress weeds.
Prune immediately after flowering to shape the plant and encourage bushiness.

Don't

Do not plant in heavy, waterlogged clay soil.
Avoid planting in direct, hot afternoon sun which can scorch leaves.
Never pile mulch directly against the trunk, as it can cause rot.
Do not fertilize in the late fall, as this can encourage tender new growth.

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

Unique specimen for a collector's gardenCharming accent in a woodland settingIntriguing foundation planting

Companion Plants

Acer palmatum Helleborus Ferns Epimedium Rhododendron

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Lady Vansittart Camellia questions

What zones can Lady Vansittart Camellia grow in?

Lady Vansittart 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 Lady Vansittart Camellia deer resistant?

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

When does Lady Vansittart Camellia bloom?

Lady Vansittart Camellia typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Lady Vansittart Camellia need full sun?

Lady Vansittart Camellia does best in part shade.