Pitard's camellia (Camellia pitardii)

Pitard's camellia

Pitard's camellia is a rare and endangered species native to southwestern China. It has beautiful small white flowers with pink centers that bloom in late winter to early spring. The plant can be grown as a small tree or a large shrub and is a popular ornamental plant in gardens. The species is named after Louis Auguste Marie Joseph Pitard, a French botanist who collected the plant in 1906.

Scientific classification

Species

Pitard's camellia (Camellia pitardii)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Winter

Bloom Time

7 m

Plant Height

5 cm to 10 cm

Flower Size

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Distribution of Pitard's camellia

Distribution Map

Pitard's camellia is naturally found in the subtropical regions of eastern Asia. The plant thrives in its native habitat, characterized by humid, temperate climates often found on the eastern edge of the continent. While primarily endemic to this locale, pitard's camellia has not been widely introduced or naturalized in other major regions on a significant scale.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forests, thickets, slopes, riversides

Care Guide for Pitard's camellia

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Pitard's camellia thrives in regions with intermittent rainfall and exhibits moderate drought tolerance. It requires watering every 2-3 weeks, balancing moisture retention and drainage. As an evergreen, pitard's camellia benefits from mulching to preserve soil moisture and protect its roots in varying weather conditions.

Fertilize: Fertilize pitard's camellia in spring with a balanced fertilizer high in nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus, every 2-4 weeks. Increase during growth, decrease in fall/winter. Use diluted solutions to prevent root burn, and avoid over-fertilization to protect pitard's camellia.

Pruning: The evergreen shrub pitard's camellia boasts glossy leaves and beautiful flowers. Pruning is best done in late spring, targeting dead branches and crowded areas to boost air circulation and promote blooming. Avoid pruning during flowering, and ensure cuts are above healthy buds to maintain its shape and vigor.

Propagation: Endemic to Vietnam and China, pitard's camellia thrives in slightly acidic, well-draining soil. Propagate via semi-hardwood cuttings using rooting hormone in a moist medium. Regular monitoring for rooting signs and consistent moisture levels are vital for successful growth of pitard's camellia.

Repotting: Potted pitard's camellia should be repotted every spring. During this process, branches and leaves can also be pruned to promote healthy growth and maintain shape.

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