- Mature height
- 2m to 4m
- Mature width
- 1.5m to 3m
Camellia japonica 'Volcano' is an upright evergreen shrub grown for its large semi double to peony form flowers in deep red. The petals are heavily ruffled and open across the cooler months above broad, glossy dark green leaves. The habit is well branched and stays dense from the base upwards.
Morning sun with afternoon shade suits it best, in a well drained, slightly acidic soil improved with organic matter. Growth is steady at 20 to 40 centimetres a year. It takes light to moderate frost once established, and performs through cool temperate, warm temperate and sheltered coastal districts.
It works as a feature shrub in a shaded courtyard, through a woodland border, in a Japanese style garden, or as a single specimen in a large container. Landscapers specify it where deep red flowering is wanted against evergreen structure in a part shade position that few other flowering shrubs will fill.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Camellia 'Volcano'
What is Camellia japonica 'Volcano'?
'Volcano' is an upright evergreen japonica camellia grown for its large deep red flowers, which open semi double to peony form with heavily ruffled petals. The leaves are broad, glossy and dark green, covering the plant densely all year. It flowers through winter and into spring in a part shade position.
How fast does Camellia 'Volcano' grow?
Growth is steady rather than quick, around 20 to 40 centimetres a year once the plant has settled. Japonicas put their energy into flower and dense wood rather than height. Good soil preparation, mulch and reliable water through the first two summers make the difference between slow progress and steady progress.
How big does it get?
Around 2 to 3 metres tall and 1.5 to 2 metres wide over many years, held upright and well branched from the base. It is easy to keep smaller with a light trim after flowering each year. Grown in a large container it will naturally sit at the lower end of that range.
Where does Camellia 'Volcano' grow best in Australia?
It suits cool temperate and warm temperate districts, including Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney, Canberra, the tablelands and the cooler parts of south east Queensland. Sheltered coastal gardens work provided it sits out of direct salt wind. In hot dry inland areas it needs afternoon shade and consistent irrigation to perform well.
Is it drought tolerant?
Established plants tolerate short dry periods, but this is not a plant for a genuinely dry garden. A deep soak every week or two through an extended dry spell keeps buds from dropping and holds flower size. A thick layer of mulch over the shallow root system does more for drought resilience than extra watering.
Can it be grown in pots?
Yes. A pot 50 centimetres wide or more, filled with a free draining camellia mix, will hold a specimen for years. Site it where it gets morning light and afternoon shade, water regularly since containers dry out quickly, and feed once flowering ends. Refresh the top of the mix each spring.
How do I care for Camellia 'Volcano'?
Prune lightly once flowering finishes to shape the plant and open up the centre. Feed with a camellia and azalea fertiliser in early spring and again after flowering. Maintain mulch, water deeply in dry weather, and clear fallen petals from around the base to limit petal blight. It needs very little beyond that.
