The Story
Plant Bio
Camellia sasanqua is an evergreen shrub native to the evergreen forests of southern Japan, characterised by its glossy, leathery foliage and autumn-to-winter flowering period. Unlike the shade-loving Camellia japonica, this species tolerates higher levels of sun and features a more open, arching growth habit.
'Setsugekka' is a Japanese cultivar distinguished by its large, semi-double white flowers with heavily crimped, fluted petals surrounding a central boss of golden-yellow stamens. Its lax, cascading branches and dense, upright form make it exceptionally well-suited for training as an espalier or formal hedge.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
142 inches
Width
118 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
7, 8, 9, 10
Water
Medium
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Long-lived
Native To
Japan
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Autumn – Winter
In flower about 4 months of the year
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a planting site with acidic, organic-rich soil that drains freely to prevent root rot.
- Position the plant so the root crown sits slightly above the surrounding soil level to avoid collar rot.
- Apply a thick layer of organic mulch, such as leaf mould or bark, to insulate the shallow feeder roots.
- Water regularly during dry spells and late summer to ensure strong flower bud development.
Pro Tip
Prune immediately after flowering finishes in late winter; cutting back in summer or autumn removes the developing flower buds and destroys the entire season's display.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Mulch annually with leaf mould or bark to keep shallow roots cool and moist.
- Prune immediately after flowering in late winter or early spring to maintain shape.
- Apply a balanced acid-loving fertiliser in spring to support new growth.
Don't
- Do not plant in heavy, compacted clay soils or waterlogged areas.
- Do not prune in summer or autumn, as this removes the current season's flower buds.
- Do not cut back into old, bare wood, as regrowth from dormant buds is weak.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spray |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Sasanqua Camellia, Autumn Camellia, Setsugekka Camellia questions
What zones can Sasanqua Camellia, Autumn Camellia, Setsugekka Camellia grow in?
Sasanqua Camellia, Autumn Camellia, Setsugekka Camellia is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
When does Sasanqua Camellia, Autumn Camellia, Setsugekka Camellia bloom?
Sasanqua Camellia, Autumn Camellia, Setsugekka Camellia typically blooms in autumn through winter. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Sasanqua Camellia, Autumn Camellia, Setsugekka Camellia need full sun?
Sasanqua Camellia, Autumn Camellia, Setsugekka Camellia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Sasanqua Camellia, Autumn Camellia, Setsugekka Camellia drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Sasanqua Camellia, Autumn Camellia, Setsugekka Camellia handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Camellia to compare

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

Classic Pink Camellia
Camellia japonica 'Classic Pink'

Setsugekka Camellia
Camellia sasanqua 'Setsugekka'

High Fragrance Camellia
Camellia 'High Fragrance'

Sea Foam Camellia
Camellia japonica 'Sea Foam'

Early Wonder Camellia
Camellia japonica 'Early Wonder'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Sasanqua Camellia, Autumn Camellia, Setsugekka 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.


























