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Evergreen

Black Magic camellia

Camellia japonica 'Black Magic'

Camellia japonica 'Black Magic' brings deep red to maroon flowers to a sheltered garden during the cool season, with glossy evergreen foliage between bloom periods. This upright shrub can reach about 8–10 feet tall and 6–8 feet wide over time; its ten-year size is less certain than its mature size. Set it near a woodland edge, along a foundation, or where winter flowers can be seen from a path. In Southwest Washington, give it partial shade or morning sun, acidic, moist but well-drained soil, and protection from cold wind. Mulch shallow roots and water during dry spells while it establishes.

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At a glance

Mature height
About 8–10 feet
Mature spread
About 6–8 feet
Light
Partial shade or morning sun
Hardiness
Generally USDA zones 8–9

The right plant, the right place

Make room for something good.

Place this evergreen shrub near a path or entry where its cool-season flowers are easy to see. It also suits a sheltered woodland edge or foundation planting.

Where to plant

A site sheltered from winter wind and hot afternoon sun suits this camellia. Give it morning sun or partial shade, with room for its eventual 6–8-foot spread.

Through the seasons

Deep red to maroon flowers appear in the cool season, though bloom timing varies. Glossy leaves remain through the year.

Southwest Washington gardens

Give it a good start.

Mild Southwest Washington gardens can suit this camellia when drainage and winter shelter are available. Watch foliage for scale and signs of water stress.

Soil, drainage & water

Plant in acidic, organic, moist but well-drained soil. Water during dry spells, and keep roots out of saturated ground.

A little care goes a long way

Growing well, season after season.

Mulch over the shallow roots and water during establishment and dry periods. If shaping is needed, prune after flowering and avoid disturbing the root area.

Know what to look for

Common growing concerns.

Symptoms can have more than one cause. These notes are a starting point for observing your plant and improving its growing conditions.

Cottony camellia scale

Scale insects on foliage or twigs may leave sticky honeydew and black sooty mold on leaves.

Help your plant thrive

Inspect leaves and twigs for scale, and conserve natural enemies. Follow regional pest guidance if populations build.

Oedema

Leaves may develop blisters or corky patches when water balance is poor.

Help your plant thrive

Improve drainage and keep watering consistent without saturating the root zone.

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