Peacock Camellia

Camellia japonica 'Kujaku Tsubaki'

$36.00 Sold out

1 Gallon | Hardiness Zones 7-9

The name means peacock camellia, and the vanity here is all in the foliage. Long, narrow leaves with peculiar fishtailed tips drape from branches with a pronounced weeping habit... more willow than camellia, more Japanese woodblock print than Southern garden border. This is not the camellia your grandmother grew.

Most japonica cultivars spend their existence chasing the perfect bloom. 'Kujaku Tsubaki' went elsewhere. Originating in Mikawa, Aichi Prefecture, and documented in Camellia Cultivars of Japan as early as 1966, it belongs to a small lineage of Japanese selections grown as much for architectural habit and leaf as for flower. Where most camellias present as dense, upright shrubs, this one arches and trails, its foliage suggestive of a Salix or a peach in full leaf — something you might stop to identify before you even notice the flowers.

When they do arrive, the flowers are tubular and deeply red, the petals marked with irregular white splashes — restrained in form, almost demure against the extravagance of everything else happening on this plant. The flowers hang pendulous from the branches, never upright.

Growth is slow, a direct consequence of that weeping habit — but given time, 'Kujaku Tsubaki' can reach small tree proportions. This is a camellia for the gardener willing to wait, and patient enough to have grown past needing the flower to do all the work.

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Hardiness Zones USDA Zones 7-9
Sun Part Shade
Soil Well-drained, Acid, Mulched, and Sandy
Mature size Height: 10-12 Feet / Spread: 6-8 Feet
Growth Rate Slow
Seasonality Evergreen

Flower, Fruit and Foliage

pink tubular, early spring

Read full care instruction manual here.

Light Requirements: Prefers partial shade to dappled sunlight. While it can tolerate full sun in cooler climates, providing some shade during the hottest part of the day in warmer regions helps prevent leaf scorch and promotes healthy growth.

Soil Requirements: Thrives in well-draining, acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Use a soil mix rich in organic matter such as peat moss, pine bark, or compost to improve drainage and fertility.

Watering: Requires consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. Water deeply to ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Mulching helps retain soil moisture and maintain a cool root environment. Reduce watering in winter to avoid root rot.

Temperature and Humidity: Hardy in USDA zones 7-9. Camellia japonica prefers moderate temperatures and high humidity. Protect from harsh winter winds and frost, especially in colder regions. In very cold climates, consider growing in containers that can be moved indoors during extreme cold spells.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers. A light feeding after flowering can promote healthy growth.

Pruning: Prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead or diseased wood. Light pruning helps encourage bushier growth and better air circulation. Avoid heavy pruning, which can reduce the following year's blooms.

Pests and Problems: Generally pest-resistant but can be susceptible to scale insects, aphids, and spider mites. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases. If pests are detected, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can occur if the soil is kept too wet.

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Here’s a closer look at how we produce our plants:

From rooting to shipping, our top priority is ensuring you receive healthy, thriving plants for your garden’s success.

The majority of our plants are carefully cultivated from rooted cuttings, while we also utilize propagation methods such as seed, air layering, and grafting, thoughtfully chosen to suit each plant’s unique needs.

Our plants are cultivated using sustainable practices, including organic soil blends and eco-friendly pest management, ensuring they thrive while minimizing environmental impact.

We are proud to contribute to local biodiversity through ongoing donations to the Aiken Arboretum and support for local wildlife conservation efforts, helping to preserve and enhance our community’s natural ecosystems.

Grown in Aiken, South Carolina

At Woodlanders, we are committed to quality.

All our plant material is carefully propagated, grown, and nurtured at our humble nursery in Aiken, South Carolina.

Learn more about Woodlanders here.

Plant Success Tip #1

Unpack Promptly

Carefully unpack your plant as soon as it arrives. Check the roots and soil to ensure they are still moist. If the roots feel dry, lightly mist or water them before proceeding with planting or temporary storage.

Plant Success Tip #2

Acclimate Your Plant

Allow your plant to adjust to its new environment by placing it in a sheltered spot for a day or two before planting, especially if it has traveled a long distance. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures right away.

Plant Success Tip #3

Follow Planting and Care Instructions

Plant your new arrival as soon as possible, following the specific care guidelines provided. If planting outdoors isn’t immediately possible, temporarily pot it in well-draining soil to maintain health until conditions are suitable.

Read Care Instructions

Frequently Asked Questions

What to expect upon delivery

All our plants are sold in 1-gallon sizes, though the height of each plant can vary depending on its growth rate and seasonality, typically ranging from 1/2 to 2.5 feet.

Each plant is carefully packaged with its roots enclosed in a secure plastic bag containing moist soil, forming a compact root ball. To ensure safe transport, the box is padded with recycled newspaper, providing both stability and eco-friendly protection from weather during shipping.
What is your return policy?

Review our full return policy information on our SHIPPING AND RETURNS POLICY page.
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We offer 35 different payment methods including major providers like Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, American Express and Diners as well as many different local payment methods including Klarna, iDEAL, AliPay, Sofort, giropay, and many more.
Can I make changes to my order after it’s been placed?

At Woodlanders, we strive to fulfill orders as quickly as possible. Therefore, we can only accommodate changes to your order within the first 24 hours after it has been placed. These changes include adding or removing products and modifying the delivery address. If you need to make any changes or if there has been a mistake with your order information, please reach out to us promptly via our CONTACT page with your order number for the quickest resolution.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.