Camellia Daintiness
Camellia japonica Daintiness is a compact evergreen shrub admired for its soft pink, semi-double flowers with gently ruffled petals. Flowering from late winter into early spring, it provides a welcome burst of colour when much of the garden is still dormant. The dark green, glossy foliage offers year-round structure and contrast.
Best grown in part shade with moist, well-drained acidic soil, Camellia Daintiness is well-suited to woodland, cottage, and formal gardens. It prefers a sheltered spot away from harsh winds and hot afternoon sun. Space around 1-1.5 metres apart. At maturity, it typically reaches 1.5-2 metres tall and wide.
Trimming: Lightly prune after flowering to maintain a tidy shape and remove any dead or crossing branches. Avoid heavy pruning, and never cut into old wood, as camellias may not reshoot reliably from bare stems.
Deadheading: Remove spent flowers by hand to encourage a neat appearance and reduce the risk of petal blight, particularly in damp or shaded conditions.
Fertilising: Apply a fertiliser formulated for acid-loving plants in early spring after flowering, and again in midsummer if needed, to promote healthy foliage and next season’s buds.
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist during establishment, especially in dry weather. Once established, water during prolonged dry spells, particularly in summer and early autumn as buds develop.
Pest Control: Monitor for common pests such as tea scale, aphids, and spider mites. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to prevent damage to leaves and flower buds.
Disease Management: Susceptible to petal blight and root rot in poorly drained or overly shaded conditions. Ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and plant in well-draining acidic soil to reduce disease risk.
Enjoy complimentary delivery anywhere in mainland New Zealand when you purchase plants worth $250 or more*.
For orders below $250, the following flat-rate delivery charges are applicable:
- Urban delivery within mainland New Zealand: $19.95
- Rural delivery within mainland New Zealand: $39.95
- Waiheke, Chatham and Great Barrier Islands: Please contact us for shipping options.
We aim to have all orders shipped within 14 days from the order date, unless a different shipping date is specified alongside a product.
