Not readily recognisable as a camellia, Tsaii is a species or wild form that displays a graceful, slightly weeping tree like habit at maturity. Tsaii’s slender slightly crinkled, willow like leaves and brown to bronze new growth, distinguish its appearance from many other camellias. Pure white miniature blossom-like flowers appear in late winter to spring and sometimes yield a light fragrance.
Tsaii will grow into a small tree if left unpruned but can be maintained as a shrub or shaped into a more tree like habit if desired. Tsaii should be treated like any other camellia for planting and care and is best suited as a backdrop to smaller growing shrubs or displayed as a specimen to highlight its attractive habit.
Planting & initial care for Tsaii:
Tsaii is suitable for planting in both, full sun or lightly shaded positions.
If planting Tsaii as a hedge or screen we recommend planting with spacing at least 1.5m apart. (Use the narrower spacing where a dense bushy hedge is required quickly and wider spacings for a superior long term effect).
Planting holes should be at least double the width and slightly deeper than the plant container and include a blend of composted material and existing topsoil. Raised beds are recommended for heavy clay soils.
Plant Tsaii so that the top of the potting mix is level with the finished soil line, firm down soil gently around the plant for stability and water in well.
Mulch the soil surface with about 5cm of quality mulch ensuring the mulch is not mounded against the plants trunk. (Place a very thin layer of mulch adjacent to the trunk and increase to maximum depth (5cm) as it radiates away from the root zone).
Tsaii will take several months and up to a year to establish in its new home depending on the time of year it is planted. Ensure the soil is kept moist but not overwatered. Watering can be reduced as the plant establishes.
Prune in early spring for shape as required (later pruning will reduce Autumn flowering).
Feed in spring with a quality general purpose fertiliser, this can be replenished in mid to late Summer as needed.
For more information go to our full PLANTING AND CARE GUIDE
