Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia

$1,940.00

Tax included. Shipping calculated at checkout.

Size: 200L

200L

Current Stock Height Guides

200L: Contact for a height guide.

Height guide disclaimer: Height ranges are approximate only. As living products, plant heights naturally vary between individual plants, batches, and seasons. No guarantee is given that supplied plants will fall within the stated range. If minimum heights are required, you mustconfirm current batch heights with Evergreen Trees Direct prior to purchase. Variation in height is normal and is not grounds for return, refund, replacement, or compensation.

Mature Height & Width

Mature Height: 2m to 3m

Mature Width: 1.5m to 2m

Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia is expected to grow 20cm to 40cm per year (slow to moderate).

Root Ball Dimensions

Use this as a reference when digging your planting hole. We recommend digging at least 10% wider than the dimensions below to encourage strong root development.

30cm Pot: 33cm (W) × 30cm (D)
40cm/45L Pot: 44cm (W) × 41.5cm (D)
50cm Pot / 70L Pot: 55cm (W) × 41.8cm (D)
100L Bag: 50.6cm (W) × 52.8cm (D)
150L Bag: 66cm (W) × 55cm (D)
200L Bag: 71.5cm (W) × 60.5cm (D)
300L Bag: 88cm (W) × 63.8cm (D)
400L Bag: 99cm (W) × 66cm (D)
500L Bag: 122cm (W) × 66cm (D)
750L Bag: 134cm (W) × 69cm (D)
1000L Bag: 146.3cm (W) × 71.5cm (D)
2000L Bag: 176cm (W) × 82.5cm (D)

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About Your New Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia

Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki', the fishtail camellia, is an upright evergreen shrub grown as much for its foliage as its flowers. Each thick glossy leaf splits at the tip into two or three lobes, giving the outline of a fish tail. Single rose pink flowers follow from late winter into early spring, on dense well branched growth.

It prefers morning sun to part shade with shelter from hot westerly exposure, in well drained slightly acidic soil holding plenty of organic matter. Growth is moderate and the habit stays compact. Light to moderate frost is handled once established, suiting cool temperate, warm temperate and protected coastal positions. Deep watering during dry spells supports both flowering and foliage.

At 200 litres this is a specimen plant. It suits a sheltered entry, a courtyard where the leaf shape can be seen at close range, a raised bed or a large decorative container. Collectors and designers ask for it by name. Buying at this size means the unusual foliage reads straight away rather than after several years.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Fishtail Camellia

What is the Fishtail Camellia?

Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' is an old Japanese cultivar of the common camellia, grown for its curiously lobed foliage. Kingyo-tsubaki translates roughly as goldfish camellia, a reference to the leaf shape. It is an evergreen shrub with single rose pink flowers in late winter and early spring, and it behaves in the garden like any other japonica.

Why is the foliage forked?

The leaf tips are genetically split into two or three lobes, a stable mutation that has been propagated in Japan for centuries. Every leaf on a mature plant shows it, though the effect is most pronounced on strong new growth. The lobes are the reason the cultivar exists, so avoid heavy shearing that removes the newest foliage.

How big does Fishtail Camellia grow?

It reaches roughly 2 to 3 metres tall and 1.5 to 2 metres wide over time, with an upright and well branched habit. Growth is moderate, so it takes a number of years to get there. In a large container it stays smaller, generally around 1.5 to 2 metres, held in check by the root volume.

Does it need sun or shade?

Morning sun with afternoon shade is the ideal, or dappled light beneath high canopy. Full afternoon sun in an exposed position scorches the leaves and spoils the foliage effect that makes this plant worth growing. It flowers acceptably in reasonably deep shade, though growth becomes more open and the flower count drops.

When does it flower?

Single rose pink flowers open from late winter into early spring, broadly July through September in most Australian gardens. Warmer districts run a few weeks ahead. The flowers are simple in form with a prominent boss of gold stamens, and they drop cleanly as they finish rather than browning on the bush.

Can it grow in a large container?

Yes. A wide, deep pot with free draining camellia or azalea mix suits it, and a container keeps the unusual foliage at eye level where it can be seen. Water more often than an in ground plant, particularly over summer, and repot or root prune every three to four years to keep the plant vigorous.

How do I care for a Fishtail Camellia?

Water deeply and consistently, especially while buds are forming through autumn, since dry soil at that stage causes bud drop. Mulch the root zone with pine bark or leaf litter. Prune sparingly and only after flowering, taking whole branches rather than shearing. Feed with a camellia fertiliser in spring and avoid lime or fresh manure.

Acmena smithii 'Firescreen' - Lilly Pilly

From $140.00

Acmena smithii 'Firescreen' is a fast-growing Australian native lilly pilly selected for its brilliant red new growth, which flushes repeatedly through the warmer months against dense glossy green mature foliage. As an Acmena it is naturally resistant to psyllid, so the foliage stays clean without spraying.

'Firescreen' grows to 4 to 5 metres tall and 2 to 3 metres wide with a naturally dense upright habit that fills in from ground level. Growth is quick at 50 to 90 centimetres per year once established, which makes it one of the faster ways to build a solid privacy screen along a boundary or between neighbouring houses.

'Firescreen' performs across most of the Australian east coast and southern states, from tropical Queensland through to Melbourne and Adelaide. It handles full sun to part shade, tolerates light to moderate frost once established, and responds well to trimming, so it can be run as a loose screen or clipped into a formal hedge.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Acmena smithii 'Firescreen'

How tall does Acmena smithii 'Firescreen' grow?

'Firescreen' grows to 4 to 5 metres tall and 2 to 3 metres wide when left unpruned. It is easily maintained at 2 to 3 metres as a trimmed hedge, and holds its density right down to ground level.

How fast does 'Firescreen' grow?

'Firescreen' is fast-growing, adding 50 to 90 centimetres per year once established. In good soil with regular water through the first two summers it will form a usable screen within two to three years.

Is 'Firescreen' psyllid resistant?

Yes. 'Firescreen' is an Acmena, and Acmena species are naturally resistant to the psyllid that causes pimple-like galls on many Syzygium lilly pillies. This is the main reason it is chosen for large hedge runs.

How far apart should I plant 'Firescreen' for a hedge?

Plant 1 to 1.5 metres apart for a dense informal screen, or 80 centimetres apart for a tighter formal hedge. For an avenue effect allow 3 metres between plants.

Is 'Firescreen' frost tolerant?

'Firescreen' handles light to moderate frost once established. In colder inland districts protect young plants through their first winter, after which they harden off and cope with regular frost.

Where does 'Firescreen' grow best in Australia?

'Firescreen' performs from tropical and subtropical Queensland through coastal and inland New South Wales, Melbourne and surrounds, Gippsland, the Western District and Adelaide. It is one of the more climate-adaptable lilly pillies.

When and how should I prune 'Firescreen'?

Trim two to three times through the growing season to build density and keep lines crisp. Each cut triggers a fresh flush of red new growth, so regular light pruning gives more colour rather than less.

Acmena smithii 'Firescreen' - Lilly Pilly - Evergreen Trees Direct

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Type: Hedging and Screening Trees

Acmena smithii 'Firescreen' - Lilly Pilly

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Acmena smithii 'Sublime' Lilly Pilly

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Acmena smithii 'Forest Flame' - Lilly Pilly

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Camellia japonica ‘Volcano’ – Red Japonica Camellia

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Uses in my Garden

Feature Tree
Plant in Pots (or) Suitable for Pots

Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia works in an:

Japanese Inspired – serene balance of form, foliage, and flow.
Formal Garden – structured, symmetrical design with clipped shapes.
Cottage Garden – romantic mix of flowers, colour, and texture.
Modern Garden – sleek, minimal, and design-led planting.
Low-maintenance Garden – resilient choices for easy care and year-round appeal.

Is Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia Evergreen or Deciduous?

Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia is an Evergreen (foliage year round) Tree

Mature Height & Width

Mature Height: 2m to 3m

Mature Width: 1.5m to 2m

Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia is expected to grow 20cm to 40cm per year (slow to moderate).

Growth Rate of Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia

Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia is expected to grow 20cm to 40cm per year (slow to moderate).

They are considered to have a:

Medium Growth Rate

Frost Tolerance & Ideal Climate to plant Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia

Is Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia frost tolerant?

Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia is Frost Tolerant – Can handle light to moderate frost once established.

Does Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia Flower?

Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' produces single pink flowers from late winter through early spring. The blooms are subtle, with the main ornamental display being the uniquely forked fishtail-shaped foliage that holds year-round.

Does Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia flower?

Yes - Flowers

Flowering Period:

Winter
Spring

Flower Type:

Pollinator-attracting

Flower Colour:

Pink

Is Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia an Australian Native Tree?

No

Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia is Native to Native to Japan and eastern Asia. 'Kingyo-tsubaki' is an old Japanese cultivar selected for its unique fishtail-shaped foliage.

What is the Wildlife Value of Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia ?

Its late winter to spring flowers provide nectar and pollen for bees and beneficial pollinators when many other plants are dormant. The dense evergreen canopy offers year-round shelter and habitat for small birds and insects.

How much Sunlight does Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia need?

Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia will thrive best in:

Part Shade

Preferred Soil?

Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' performs best in moist, well-drained loamy soils with slightly acidic pH and consistent organic matter. Mulch keeps root conditions cool. Avoid alkaline or persistently waterlogged conditions, which reduce flowering and foliage vigour.

Is Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia Drought Tolerant?

Is Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia Drought tolerant?

During establishment it requires regular watering, but once established Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' develops moderate drought tolerance. Suited to cool temperate, warm temperate, and protected coastal positions, it maintains foliage with only occasional deep watering during extended dry periods.

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How To Plant Your Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia

Site: Choose a well-drained position in full sun to part shade with room for the canopy to develop.

Soil preparation: Enrich the planting area with quality compost and aged manure for a strong establishment phase.

Hole: Dig twice as wide as the root ball and the same depth.

Planting: Position level with the surrounding soil, backfill gently, firm in, then water deeply to settle the roots.

Recommended Planting Spacing For Your Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia

Feature tree: 3 to 4 metres apart to allow the full canopy and form to develop.

Pot or container: A 40 to 50 centimetre wide pot suits a single specimen for courtyards, entries and balconies.

Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia is expected to grow 20cm to 40cm per year (slow to moderate).

Medium Growth Rate

Long Term Care For Your Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia

Watering: Water deeply twice weekly through the first 12 months. Once established, keep the root zone consistently moist with weekly deep watering and additional water during hot dry spells.

Mulching: Apply a 3 to 5 centimetre layer of organic mulch over the root zone in the garden, or a thin layer of decorative pebbles in pots, keeping it clear of the trunk.

Pruning: Minimal pruning required. Light tip prune in late winter to maintain shape, and remove lower branches as the tree grows to develop a clean feature trunk.

Fertilising: Apply a slow-release general-purpose fertiliser in early spring and again in autumn for steady growth and consistent foliage colour.

Pest and disease: Hardy against most pests and diseases. Occasional inspection for scale or sooty mould in warm humid conditions is all that's needed.

Planting Your Camellia japonica 'Kingyo-tsubaki' – Fishtail Camellia in Different Soil

Camellia japonica performs best in rich, well-drained loam with a slightly acidic pH and consistent moisture. Adaptable to a wide range of soils when drainage and organic matter are managed well.

Sandy soil: Free-draining but enrich heavily with compost and mulch deeply to hold moisture.

Clay soil: Improve drainage with gypsum and organic compost, and mound slightly to lift the root zone.

Loam: The preferred soil for steady root development and consistent flowering.

pH: Slightly acidic preferred. Mulch with composted leaf litter or pine bark to maintain levels naturally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What makes 'Kingyo-tsubaki' unique?
A. Its foliage. Each leaf forks at the tip into a clear fishtail-shape, an unusual botanical feature among camellias.

Q. When does it flower?
A. Single pink flowers appear from late winter through to early spring.

Q. Where does it perform best?
A. Part shade with morning sun, in moist well-drained slightly acidic soil.

Q. Is it suitable for pots?
A. Yes. Slow to moderate growth and compact upright habit suit large decorative containers.