Camellia 'Autumn Spirit'

A hybrid of C. oleifera x C. sasanqua, the evergreen autumn spirit camellia can be grown as a large shrub or small tree. It will grow 5 to 6 feet tall and wide.

It can adapt to a variety of conditions, but for the best performance, moist, acidic, organically rich soil with good drainage is necessary.  Protect from the southern afternoon sun.  Pruning can be accomplished after flowering. It is cold-tolerant, but not winter hardy. In more northern climates, it can be grown in a container and brought inside late in the season as the temperatures drop.  When container grown, it may not reach its full potential when compared to when planted outdoors in a garden.  Container grown plants also require more frequent watering.

The hot pink double flowers start appearing in September to October and are quite showy. The evergreen glossy leaves are attractive all year.

This Camellia makes an excellent choice for a woodland border. It can be a focal point in your garden, used in a border or placed as a foundation plant. Fall blooms add color to your landscape when other plants have lost their blooms. 

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Like other varieties of Camellia, the most serious issues affecting these plants are canker, flower blight, root rot and dieback.  Prevention and treatment can avoid these issues.  Insects include aphids and spider mites.  Again, prevention and treatment can keep these insects under control.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common camellia diseases and insect pests.