Light: Bright filtered shade; gentle early-morning sun is acceptable. Protect from afternoon sun, reflected heat, and hot, drying winds.
Water: Keep the root zone evenly moist but never waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the upper inch of soil begins to dry; check containers frequently during summer. Low-alkalinity water is preferable where available.
Soil: Acidic, organically rich, well-drained soil with a pH around 5.5–6.5. Phoenix’s alkaline soils make a large container with an acidic camellia potting mix the most practical option. Keep the root crown slightly above soil level and mulch without covering the trunk.
Mature size: Typically 4–6 feet tall and 6–8 feet wide; usually smaller in containers.
Bloom: Typically fall into early winter; timing and flower quality vary with local heat and growing conditions.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen.
Growth rate: Slow to moderate; often slower under Phoenix conditions.