Overview
Camellia japonica subsp. rusticana 'Kifukurin-benten' (v) is a upright, spreading shrubs in the genus Camellia, part of the Theaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Camellia japonica subsp. rusticana 'Kifukurin-benten' (v) 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 subsp. rusticana 'Kifukurin-benten' is an evergreen shrub belonging to the Camellia genus, known for its smooth, glossy, and leathery oval leaves. This cultivar has an upright, spreading habit and thrives in partial shade, ideally in north, east, or west-facing sheltered locations. It prefers moist but well-drained, humus-rich acidic loam soil. Hardy to UK zone H5, it is suitable for shrub borders, containers, and woodland gardens. Its season of interest spans winter and spring, reflecting the typical flowering period of Camellias.
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 subsp. rusticana 'Kifukurin-benten' (v) 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 subsp. rusticana 'Kifukurin-benten' (v)
- 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 subsp. rusticana 'Kifukurin-benten' (v)?
Camellia japonica subsp. rusticana 'Kifukurin-benten' (v) prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Camellia japonica subsp. rusticana 'Kifukurin-benten' (v) need?
Camellia japonica subsp. rusticana 'Kifukurin-benten' (v) grows best in loam soil. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Camellia japonica subsp. rusticana 'Kifukurin-benten' (v) hardy in the UK?
Camellia japonica subsp. rusticana 'Kifukurin-benten' (v) 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 subsp. rusticana 'Kifukurin-benten' (v)?
Semi-hardwood cuttings.
More in the Camellia genus
- Camellia 'Ice Follies'camellia 'Ice Follies'

- Camellia 'Scented Sun'

- Camellia caudata

- Camellia japonica 'Adelina Patti' carmine sport

- Camellia japonica 'Adolphe Audusson Variegated'

- Camellia japonica 'Benidaikagura'

- Camellia japonica 'Benten-kagura' (v)

- Camellia japonica 'Benten-tsubaki' (v)
