Sasanqua Camellia

Sasanqua camellias tolerate more sun than Japanese camellias but do best in NE Florida with morning sun and shelter from harsh afternoon rays. An east- or north-facing sheltered site is ideal; afternoon shade improves flowering and reduces stress.

Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained. Apply a 2–3 inch layer of organic mulch to conserve moisture and moderate root temperature. Avoid overwatering, which promotes root rot in sandy Florida soils.

Plant in fertile, well-drained, acidic soil (pH 5.0–6.5) amended with organic matter. Sandy NE Florida soils should be enriched with compost. Fertilize with an azalea/camellia acid-forming fertilizer in spring and early summer; avoid over-fertilizing, which causes spindly growth and reduces bloom.