What Is a Camellia Shrub?

By Staff WriterLast Updated December 07, 2023

A camellia shrub is a flowering plant that can grow up to 20 feet in height. The shrub produces pink, white and red flowers that bloom in single and double formations. Camellia shrubs grow approximately 1 foot per year and are often used to border homes.

While there are several varieties of camellia shrubs, the most common home garden varieties are japonica camellias and sasanqua camellias. Japonica camellias produce plentiful leaves and dark pink flowers. The japonica flowers are also referred to as winter roses due to the fact the shrubs are winter hardy. Sasanqua camellia plants possess smaller leaves and flowers. They typically bloom during the fall months. Camellia shrubs thrive in moist, acidic soil and light shade.