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Description
Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler is an evergreen shrub that is native to Japan and Korea. It is known for its stunning flowers that bloom from winter to early spring. The flowers come in a range of colors, including pink, red, white, and variegated. They are large and showy, with a diameter of up to 5 inches. The leaves of Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler are glossy and dark green, and they provide a beautiful backdrop for the flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Theaceae |
| Genus | Camellia |
Appearance
Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler is a medium-sized shrub that can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It has a dense, spreading growth habit, with multiple branches that form a rounded shape. The flowers of Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler are the main attraction, and they bloom from late winter to early spring. The flowers are large and showy, with a diameter of up to 5 inches. They have a symmetrical shape, with numerous petals that form a cup or bowl shape. The leaves of Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler are glossy and dark green, with a leathery texture. They are oval-shaped and pointed, with a serrated edge.
Care Guide
Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it does require some care to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler:
- Water: Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly. However, it is important not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler should be fertilized once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler prefers well-draining, acidic soil. If the soil in your area is not acidic, you can add peat moss or other acidic material to the soil to lower the pH.
- Sunlight: Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler prefers partial shade, with some protection from the hot afternoon sun.
- Hardiness Zones: Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to a few common problems. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that affect Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler:
- Aphids: These small, sap-sucking insects can be found on the leaves and stems of Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scale: Scale insects are small, immobile pests that can be found on the leaves and stems of Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Camellia flower blight: This fungal disease can cause the flowers of Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler to turn brown and fall off. It can be controlled with a fungicide spray.
Habitat
Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler is native to Japan and Korea, where it grows in forests and on hillsides. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade. Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler poisonous?
A: No, Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler is not poisonous to humans or pets.
Q: How often should I water Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler?
A: Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler should be watered regularly, but not overwatered. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: Can Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler tolerate full sun?
A: No, Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler prefers partial shade, with some protection from the hot afternoon sun.
Q: What is the best time to prune Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler?
A: Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler should be pruned right after it finishes blooming, in late spring or early summer.
Related Plants
- Camellia Sasanqua
- Camellia Sinensis
- Camellia Reticulata
References
- “Camellia Japonica,” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277419&isprofile=0&.
- “Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler,” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/8683/i-Camellia-japonica-i-R-L-Wheeler/Details.
- “Camellia Japonica R.L. Wheeler,” Plant Finder, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/1368/r-l-wheeler-camellia/.
