shrub

October Magic Ivory Camellia

Camellia sasanqua 'October Magic Ivory'

The Story

Plant Bio

Sasanqua camellias are fall-blooming evergreen shrubs with smaller leaves and a more open habit than their C. japonica relatives, and they tolerate more sun.

'October Magic Ivory' is a compact, mounding shrub that produces a profusion of elegant, fully double white flowers resembling small roses in early autumn.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesThe profusion of pure white, rose-like flowers provides a stunning display in the autumn garden. Its compact, mounding habit and evergreen foliage are attractive year-round.
Practical UsesPerfectly sized for containers on patios, balconies, or as a low hedge or foundation planting in smaller urban or suburban gardens.
Ecological BenefitsOffers a late-season source of nectar for bees and other pollinators when many other floral resources have faded.
SpeciesCamellia sasanquaSasanqua Camellia

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

42 inches

Width

54 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Long-lived shrub

Native To

Japan (species)

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Early fall – Mid-fall

J
F
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M
J
J
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In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Choose a location with acidic, well-drained soil.
  2. Provide morning sun and protection from harsh afternoon sun.
  3. Dig a hole twice the width of the container.
  4. Plant with the root ball slightly above the soil line.
  5. Water deeply after planting to settle the soil.
  6. Maintain consistent moisture, especially during the first year.

Pro Tip

Its compact size makes it an ideal choice for smaller gardens, containers, or the front of a border.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Use an acidic fertilizer.
  • Mulch to protect roots and retain moisture.
  • Provide good air circulation to prevent disease.
  • Water regularly during establishment and dry periods.

Don't

  • Do not plant in alkaline or poorly drained soil.
  • Avoid planting too deep.
  • Do not allow the plant to dry out completely.
  • Avoid pruning late in the season, which removes flower buds.

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Elegant low evergreen borderBeautiful container specimen for patiosCompact foundation planting accent

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

October Magic Ivory Camellia questions

What zones can October Magic Ivory Camellia grow in?

October Magic Ivory 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 October Magic Ivory Camellia deer resistant?

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

When does October Magic Ivory Camellia bloom?

October Magic Ivory 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 October Magic Ivory Camellia need full sun?

October Magic Ivory Camellia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow October Magic Ivory 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.