shrub

Sasanqua Camellia, Autumn Camellia, Setsugekka Camellia

Camellia sasanqua 'Setsugekka'

$42.95

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:

Ornamental UsesLarge, semi-double white flowers with crimped petals and golden stamens provide late-season interest, complemented by glossy evergreen foliage.
Practical UsesLax, arching branches lend themselves exceptionally well to training as an espalier, formal hedge, or privacy screen.
Ecological BenefitsProvides a vital nectar source for bees and generalist insect pollinators during autumn and winter, and offers nesting cover for small birds.
SpeciesCamellia sasanquaSasanqua Camellia

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

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

In flower about 4 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

In Stock$42.95
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Ships Year Round
<1 Gal Pot
In Stock$54.50
In Stock$109.95

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a planting site with acidic, organic-rich soil that drains freely to prevent root rot.
  2. Position the plant so the root crown sits slightly above the surrounding soil level to avoid collar rot.
  3. Apply a thick layer of organic mulch, such as leaf mould or bark, to insulate the shallow feeder roots.
  4. 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

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune
Spray

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

EspalierHedgeScreeningFeature PlantContainer Planting

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.

Keep exploring

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.