shrub

Crimson Candles Hybrid Camellia

Camellia 'Crimson Candles'

The Story

Plant Bio

Camellia reticulata and its hybrids are known for their exceptionally large, often ruffled flowers and large, leathery, prominently veined leaves. They typically have a more open, upright, and tree-like habit than other camellias.

'Crimson Candles' is uniquely ornamental even before it blooms, featuring long, slender, bright red flower buds that resemble candles. These open to reveal very large, semi-double, crimson-red flowers over a long period.

Uses & Benefits:

Offers a unique multi-season display with its bright red 'candle' buds in fall, followed by a long season of huge crimson flowers through winter. It provides a bold, dramatic statement in the landscape.

Its tall, upright growth makes it an excellent choice for a narrow hedge or screen where vertical interest is needed. Can be trained as a small tree or espalier.

The fall and winter flowers are a vital food source for pollinators, such as bees, that are active during warm spells in the cooler months.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

144 inches

Width

96 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Prefers moderate to high

Lifespan

Long-lived evergreen shrub

Native To

Hybrid origin

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Mid-fall – Late winter

In flower about 5 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a location with acidic, well-drained soil and good air circulation.
Provide morning sun and afternoon shade, or full sun in cooler climates.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball.
Set the plant so its root flare is slightly above the existing soil line.
Backfill with native soil amended with compost.
Water deeply after planting and mulch to conserve moisture.

Pro Tip

Its upright habit can become leggy; prune after flowering to encourage denser growth and more branching for a fuller appearance.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide shelter from cold, drying winds.
Water consistently, especially during summer heat.
Feed with an appropriate acid-loving fertilizer in spring.
Remove spent flowers to keep the plant looking tidy.

Don't

Do not plant in poorly drained or alkaline soil.
Avoid letting the large leaves accumulate debris, which can harbor pests.
Don't fertilize late in the season, as it can promote tender new growth.
Avoid overhead watering, which can encourage fungal diseases.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Dramatic winter-interest specimenTall screening plant for privacyFocal point in a mixed border

Companion Plants

Acer palmatum Magnolia stellata Edgeworthia chrysanthaCorylopsis Helleborus

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Crimson Candles Hybrid Camellia questions

What zones can Crimson Candles Hybrid Camellia grow in?

Crimson Candles Hybrid 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 Crimson Candles Hybrid Camellia deer resistant?

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

When does Crimson Candles Hybrid Camellia bloom?

Crimson Candles Hybrid Camellia typically blooms in mid-fall through late winter. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Crimson Candles Hybrid Camellia need full sun?

Crimson Candles Hybrid Camellia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.