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:
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
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a location with acidic, well-drained soil.
- Provide morning sun and protection from harsh afternoon sun.
- Dig a hole twice the width of the container.
- Plant with the root ball slightly above the soil line.
- Water deeply after planting to settle the soil.
- 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
| 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
Companion Plants
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.
More Camellia to compare

Kramer's Supreme Camellia
Camellia japonica 'Kramer's Supreme'

Sea Foam Camellia
Camellia japonica 'Sea Foam'

Classic Pink Camellia
Camellia japonica 'Classic Pink'

Setsugekka Camellia
Camellia sasanqua 'Setsugekka'

High Fragrance Camellia
Camellia 'High Fragrance'

Jerry Hill Camellia
Camellia japonica 'Jerry Hill'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
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.


























