Golden camellia (Camellia petelotii)

Golden camellia

Golden camellia is a prized ornamental plant in China, Taiwan, and Japan, known for its stunning bright yellow flowers that bloom in late winter through early spring. The plant is named after M. J. Petelot, a French missionary who discovered it in Vietnam in 1899.

Scientific classification

Species

Golden camellia (Camellia petelotii)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

2 cm to 6 cm

Flower Size

White, Yellow

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Golden camellia

Distribution of Golden camellia

Distribution Map

Golden camellia is indigenous to the subtropical regions of Southeast Asia. While originally confined to a specific area, this plant has since been cultivated in various parts of the world due to its ornamental value, extending its reach beyond its native range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forests in river valleys or along streams

Care Guide for Golden camellia

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Golden camellia thrives in humid environments, requiring consistent moisture without waterlogging. Weekly watering mimics its native rainfall. Commonly grown indoors, it flourishes with maintained humidity, reflecting its rainforest origins where it enjoys sheltered and moist conditions.

Fertilize: For golden camellia, use balanced fertilizers with equal NPK ratios like 10-10-10 during active growth in spring and summer, fertilizing monthly with diluted liquid fertilizer. Reduce fertilization in fall, ceasing in winter. New gardeners should wear gloves, and avoid over-fertilizing to ensure golden camellia's health.

Pruning: Golden camellia features vibrant yellow blooms. Prune in late spring post-flowering to boost growth and future blooms. Remove dead branches and thin crowded areas for airflow, avoiding more than one-third removal. This enhances shape, promotes vigor, and reduces disease risk, resulting in a healthier plant.

Propagation: Native to Southeast Asia, golden camellia is prized for its vibrant blooms. Propagation through semi-hardwood cuttings is ideal, requiring two leaf nodes. Insert into a well-drained medium, maintain moisture, and cover with plastic to enhance humidity for effective root development.

Repotting: Repot potted golden camellia annually in spring and prune branches and leaves during the process to maintain its health and promote growth.

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