- Mature height
- 0.8m to 1.2m
- Mature width
- 1m to 1.5m
Camellia sasanqua 'Dwarf Shishi' is a low, spreading evergreen shrub covered in soft pink semi double flowers through the cooler months. It comes from the same line as 'Shishi Gashira' and shares that plant's layered horizontal branching and small dark glossy leaves, but on a much shorter and tighter frame.
Full sun to partial shade both suit it, in well drained, slightly acidic soil with mulch and steady water while young. Growth is slow to moderate at 20 to 40 centimetres a year, reaching roughly 0.8 to 1.2 metres tall and 1 to 1.5 metres wide. Light to moderate frost is tolerated.
This is the camellia to reach for when a bed is shallow or a hedge has to stay under a window. Use it as a low border, a front of house edge, a groundcover style mass beneath established trees, or in wide pots. Almost no pruning is needed to keep it looking neat.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Camellia 'Dwarf Shishi'
What is Camellia sasanqua 'Dwarf Shishi'?
'Dwarf Shishi' is a low, spreading evergreen camellia with masses of soft pink semi double flowers through autumn and winter. It comes from the same line as 'Shishi Gashira' and shares that plant's layered horizontal branching and small dark glossy leaves, but on a much shorter and more compact frame.
How big does 'Dwarf Shishi' grow?
Roughly 0.8 to 1.2 metres tall and 1 to 1.5 metres wide, so it finishes wider than it is high. That low spreading shape is the whole point of the plant. It rarely needs pruning to stay in bounds, which makes it useful under windows and along path edges.
How fast does it grow?
Slow to moderate, about 20 to 40 centimetres a year. It takes a few seasons to knit together into a solid low mass, so plant at proper spacing and be patient rather than crowding the bed. Steady water and mulch through the establishment years speed things up noticeably.
Does it need sun or shade?
Full sun to partial shade both work. In cooler districts it holds full sun and flowers heavily, while in hot inland gardens some afternoon shade protects the foliage. Sasanqua types are more sun tolerant than japonicas, which is why this one turns up in exposed front garden beds and street level planters.
When does it flower?
Autumn into winter, generally April through to July, with a long succession of flowers rather than a single flush. Because the plant is low and dense, the display sits right at the front of a border where it is easily seen. Flowers drop cleanly as they finish instead of browning on the bush.
How far apart should I plant it for a low hedge?
Space plants 60 to 80 centimetres apart for a continuous low hedge or border, measured centre to centre. For a groundcover style mass planting, 80 centimetres to 1 metre suits, since the plant spreads wider than it grows tall. Prepare the full bed rather than individual planting holes.
How do I care for 'Dwarf Shishi'?
Mulch well, water through dry spells, and feed with a camellia and azalea fertiliser once flowering finishes. Pruning is largely optional, though a light tip trim after flowering thickens the plant. Keep mulch clear of the main stem and avoid cultivating over the shallow root system.
