Overview

Camellia japonica 'Mathotiana' is a upright, spreading shrubs in the genus Camellia, part of the Theaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Camellia japonica 'Mathotiana' grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include shrub borders, containers and woodland gardens.

About

Camellia japonica 'Mathotiana' is an evergreen, upright, spreading shrub in the family Theaceae grown for its winter and spring flowering. It blooms in January, February, March, April, October, November and December. Plant in partial shade on moist, acidic loam in a sheltered north-, east- or west-facing position and ensure soil is well drained.

About the genus

Camellia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Theaceae. They are found in tropical and subtropical areas in eastern and southern Asia, from the Himalayas east to Japan and Indonesia. There are more than 220 described species; almost all are found in southern China and Indochina.

Wikipedia contributors, "Camellia", CC BY-SA 4.0Camellia

In the garden

Camellia japonica 'Mathotiana' is a cultivar of Camellia japonica valued for its extended display of blooms through late autumn, winter and early spring. As an evergreen with an upright, spreading habit it provides year-round foliage structure while producing flowers in January, February, March, April, October, November and December. Give it partial shade and a soil that stays moist yet drains freely; a loam with an acid pH suits it best. Sitings that face north, east or west and that are sheltered from strong winds will protect the canopy and flowers, and the plant carries an H5 rating, meaning it is classed as hardy in UK conditions when planted in a suitable location. Use Camellia japonica 'Mathotiana' where a sheltered, semi-shaded element is needed: it performs well in shrub borders, in large containers, or within woodland garden planting. Place it where its winter and spring flowers can be appreciated close to paths or seating, since its main seasonal interest is the bloom display that appears in January, February, March, April, October, November and December.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Camellia

Sunlight
Partial shade
Soil type
Loam
Soil pH
Acid
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
North-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Camellia japonica 'Mathotiana' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Shrubs
Habit
Upright, Spreading
Foliage
Evergreen
Suggested uses
Shrub borders, Containers, Woodland gardens

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Camellia japonica 'Mathotiana'

Propagation
Semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistance
Aphids, Scale insects, Vine weevil
Disease resistance
Honey fungus, Phytophthora root rot, Camellia gall, Camellia leaf blight, Camellia yellow mottle virus, Camellia petal blight

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Camellia japonica 'Mathotiana'?

Camellia japonica 'Mathotiana' prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Camellia japonica 'Mathotiana' need?

Camellia japonica 'Mathotiana' grows best in loam soil. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Camellia japonica 'Mathotiana' hardy in the UK?

Camellia japonica 'Mathotiana' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Camellia japonica 'Mathotiana'?

Semi-hardwood cuttings.

More in the Camellia genus

Browse all Camellia