Species

Camellia japonicaJapanese Camellia

23 other cultivars

shrub

Tricolor Japanese Camellia

Camellia japonica 'Tricolor'

Same species

Species

Camellia japonicaJapanese Camellia

23 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

144 inches

Width

96 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Prefers high humidity

Lifespan

50+ years

Native To

Japan, Korea, China

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Camellia japonica is a broadleaf evergreen shrub prized for its large, showy flowers from late winter to spring and its glossy, dark green leaves. 'Tricolor' is a historic heirloom variety, also known as 'Sieboldii', famed for its variable semi-double flowers. Each bloom is unique, typically white with delicate streaks of pink and red.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Offers a unique and charming floral display, with each flower a surprise. Its historic status and variable blooms make it a focal point and a story piece in any garden setting.

Grows into a large, substantial shrub that can be used for screening or as a background plant in a large border, providing evergreen structure and a whimsical floral show.

Like other japonicas, its early spring flowers provide a crucial nectar source for bees and other pollinators that are active on warmer late-winter days.

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with acidic, well-drained soil and morning sun.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
Set the plant with the root flare slightly above soil level.
Backfill with amended soil, creating a slight mound.
Water thoroughly to settle soil and eliminate air pockets.
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base.

Pro Tip

Do not be alarmed by color variations; the unpredictable streaking is the signature charm of this heirloom cultivar.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells.
Use an acid-forming fertilizer formulated for camellias and azaleas.
Mulch with pine straw or bark to conserve moisture and acidify soil.
Prune immediately after flowering to avoid removing next year's buds.

Don't

Do not plant in heavy, waterlogged clay soil.
Avoid exposing the plant to harsh afternoon sun or drying winter winds.
Never pile mulch directly against the trunk.
Don't allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.

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

Unique specimen for plant collectorsCharming conversation piece in a mixed borderHistoric accent for a cottage garden

Companion Plants

Rhododendron Azalea Hosta Helleborus orientalis Pieris japonica

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Tricolor Japanese Camellia questions

What zones can Tricolor Japanese Camellia grow in?

Tricolor Japanese 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 Tricolor Japanese Camellia deer resistant?

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

When does Tricolor Japanese Camellia bloom?

Tricolor Japanese 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 Tricolor Japanese Camellia need full sun?

Tricolor Japanese Camellia does best in part shade.