shrub RHS Award

Nuccio's Gem Camellia

Camellia japonica 'Nuccio'S Gem'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

96 inches

Width

84 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. 'Nuccio's Gem' is considered one of the finest white camellias, producing large, perfectly formal double flowers with pristine white, spirally arranged petals. The blooms are exceptionally weather-resistant.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

The epitome of elegance, 'Nuccio's Gem' provides breathtakingly perfect, pure white flowers that glow in the shade. The contrast between the pristine blooms and the dark, glossy foliage is striking, making it a superb focal point.

Its upright, compact growth habit makes it ideal for smaller spaces, large containers, or formal garden designs. The flowers are long-lasting when cut for indoor arrangements.

Offers a valuable nectar source for early spring pollinators. The dense evergreen foliage provides excellent cover and potential nesting habitat for small birds.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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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.
Clean up fallen blooms promptly to help prevent petal blight.

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 allow spent white flowers to remain on the plant or ground.

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 formal specimen plantPristine accent in a containerClassic foundation planting

Companion Plants

Buxus sempervirens Hosta 'Halcyon' Liriope muscari Rhododendron Hydrangea macrophylla

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Nuccio's Gem Camellia questions

What zones can Nuccio's Gem Camellia grow in?

Nuccio's Gem 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 Nuccio's Gem Camellia deer resistant?

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

When does Nuccio's Gem Camellia bloom?

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

Does Nuccio's Gem Camellia need full sun?

Nuccio's Gem Camellia does best in part shade.