Giant-fruited Camellia

Camellia gigantocarpa

$42.00 Sold out
New
Very Rare

1 Gallon | Hardiness Zones 7-9

Camellia gigantocarpa is a rare and remarkable species of Camellia native to the subtropical regions of southern China. Discovered in the wild in the 1980s, this plant is distinguished by its unusually large fruit, which is the origin of its name—"gigantocarpa" meaning "giant fruit." Unlike many other Camellia species, which are prized for their flowers, Camellia gigantocarpa is noted for its unique botanical characteristics and historical significance.

Origins and History

Camellia gigantocarpa was first documented in the wild forests of China's Guangxi Province, an area known for its rich biodiversity. This species grows naturally in the subtropical evergreen forests, where it thrives in the warm, humid climate. The discovery of Camellia gigantocarpa was significant for the botanical community, as it added a new dimension to the understanding and classification of the Camellia genus.

Conservation Status: Due to its limited natural habitat and the pressures of deforestation, Camellia gigantocarpa is considered a rare species. Efforts have been made to cultivate it in botanical gardens and to protect its natural environment.

Photos courtesy of Daniel Barthelemy
Plant Specs
  • Zones: 7 - 9
  • Sun: Part Shade and Full Shade
  • Soil: Well-drained and Acid
  • Height at Maturity: 10 - 20 Feet
  • Spread at Maturity: 8 - 12 Feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow

Evergreen
Flower/Foliage

Flower Structure: Produces large, single white to pale pink flowers with a prominent yellow center.

Blooming Season: Blooms in late winter to early spring, providing early-season interest.

Fruit: Known for its large, woody seed pods (fruits), which are a distinctive feature of the species.

White to pink, prominent yellow
Care Info

Read full care instruction manual here.

Light Requirements: Prefers partial shade to full shade. While it can tolerate some direct morning sunlight, it thrives best in filtered or dappled shade, mimicking its natural understory environment in forests. Avoid exposing the plant to harsh afternoon sun, especially in hotter climates, as this can scorch the leaves.

Soil Requirements: Thrives in well-draining, acidic soil. It prefers a pH range of 5.5-6.5. Incorporating organic matter such as compost, leaf mold, or peat moss can improve soil fertility and help maintain the desired acidity. The soil should be rich, loamy, and able to retain moisture without becoming waterlogged.

Watering: Requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Deep, infrequent watering is preferred over shallow, frequent watering to encourage deep root growth. Mulching around the base of the plant helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Temperature and Humidity: Hardy in USDA zones 7-9. Prefers moderate temperatures and high humidity. Protect the plant from extreme cold, frost, and strong winds, as it is not frost-tolerant. In colder regions, consider planting Camellia gigantocarpa in a sheltered location or growing it in a container that can be moved indoors during winter.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants in early spring and again in mid-summer. An additional light application of compost or well-rotted manure can enhance soil fertility. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to root burn and excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering.

Pruning: Prune immediately after flowering to shape the plant and remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Light pruning helps maintain a compact shape and promotes better air circulation. Avoid heavy pruning, as it can reduce the number of blooms for the following season.

Pests and Problems: Generally pest-resistant, but can occasionally attract aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases such as petal blight, root rot, and leaf spot. If pests are detected, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Regular inspection of the plant can help catch issues early.

Pickup currently unavailable at Aiken Nursery

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.

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.

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.