Cleopatra Camellia
Camellia sasanqua 'Cleopatra'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
96 inches
Width
96 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate to high
Lifespan
Very long-lived shrub
Native To
Japan
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Camellia sasanqua is a species of evergreen shrub known for its fall-blooming habit, smaller glossy leaves, and often fragrant flowers. They typically have a more open, spreading growth habit than their C. japonica relatives and tolerate more sun. 'Cleopatra' is a classic, long-standing cultivar valued for its graceful, somewhat weeping habit and lovely semi-double, rose-pink flowers that are lightly fragrant. It is a vigorous grower and a reliable bloomer.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
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Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a site with well-drained, acidic soil (pH 5.5-6.5).
- Dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball.
- Plant the camellia with its root flare slightly above soil level.
- Backfill with soil amended with compost or pine bark fines.
- Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
- Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch, keeping it away from the trunk.
Pro Tip
Plant sasanqua camellias in a location with morning sun and afternoon shade to protect the foliage and promote the best flowering.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide consistent water, especially during the first few years and in dry spells.
- Maintain an acidic soil pH.
- Mulch to conserve moisture and keep roots cool.
- Prune after flowering to shape the plant and improve air circulation.
Don't
- Do not plant too deep.
- Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, especially in summer when buds are forming.
- Don't plant in heavy, waterlogged clay soil.
- Avoid direct, hot afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Cleopatra Camellia questions
What zones can Cleopatra Camellia grow in?
Cleopatra 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 Cleopatra Camellia deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Cleopatra Camellia, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Cleopatra Camellia bloom?
Cleopatra Camellia typically blooms in early fall through mid-fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Cleopatra Camellia need full sun?
Cleopatra Camellia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Camellia to compare
Kramer's Supreme Camellia
Camellia japonica 'Kramer's Supreme'
Sea Foam Camellia
Camellia japonica 'Sea Foam'
Setsugekka Camellia
Camellia sasanqua 'Setsugekka'
Classic Pink Camellia
Camellia japonica 'Classic Pink'
Early Wonder Camellia
Camellia japonica 'Early Autumn'
Early Wonder Camellia
Camellia japonica 'Early Wonder'
Keep exploring
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Grow Cleopatra Camellia with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
