Which plant is known as the Japanese Camellia?

The Japanese Camellia is scientifically known as Camellia japonica. This species is renowned for its large, showy flowers, which bloom in various colors, including pink, red, and white. Native to East Asia, particularly Japan and Korea, this plant is widely appreciated for its ornamental beauty and is often used in landscaping and gardens across various climate zones.

Camellia japonica typically thrives in acidic, well-drained soil and prefers partial shade, making it suitable for many garden settings. Its glossy evergreen leaves contribute to its year-round visual appeal, while the flowers create stunning displays during the blooming season.

In contrast, Camellia sasanqua, while also part of the Camellia genus, is distinct from the Japanese Camellia and is more often associated with hardiness and prolific blooming in the fall and early winter. The other species listed—Cephalotaxus harringtonia, commonly known as the Japanese plum yew, and Clethra alnifolia, known as summersweet—belong to entirely different plant families and do not share the same characteristics attributed to Camellia japonica.