• A cluster of pink camellia flowers.Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
  
  The Camellia genus (Camellia spp.) is a genus of evergreen shrubs and small trees that hail from eastern and southern Asia. The plants are primarily cultivated for their large, showy flowers and glossy evergreen leaves. Gardeners interested in cultivating in camellia plants have several common varieties to choose from.
  
  

Camellia Japonica

• Camellia japonica is a slow-growing camellia species that boasts more than 3,000 different varieties, including cultivars such as the red-flowered Adolphe Audusson and the white-flowered Alba Simplex. Camellia japonica plants typically boast pink, densely petaled flowers that resemble roses. The shrub gradually grows to a maximum height of 20 feet, and may be grown in containers. Camellia japonica is a native of China, and suitable for cultivation in U.S. Department of Agriculture zones 6 to 9. Grow the flower in an acidic, moist soil in partial sun. The plant does best in a location facing west, where it will be protected from morning sunlight.
  
  

Camellia Sasanqua

• Camellia sasanqua is a camellia species that grows throughout Japan and China. The shrub grows to be between 4 to 15 feet tall, producing rich green foliage and flowers that may be pink or white depending on cultivar. Flowers are generally not fragrant. Camellia sasanqua blooms later than other camellia species, producing blooms in fall and early winter. The shrub is tolerant of a range of soil types, though it will look its best in a rich, acidic soil that has been mulched with shredded bark or leaf litter. The plant prefers to grow in broken shade in USDA zones 7 to 9, but it will tolerate full sunlight if the soil is kept adequately moist.
  
  

Camellia oleifera

• A native of China, Camellia oleifera may be cultivated as a small tree or shrub. The plant grows to be about 20 feet tall, producing single white blooms in the spring. Flowers are sweetly fragrant and about 2 1/2 inches across. Camellia oleifera may be grown outdoors in USDA zones 6 to 9, or indoors in bright, filtered sunlight. Outdoor plants prefer a sheltered location in filtered or partial shade. Grow the plant in a humus rich, well-draining soil that is moist to the touch. Fertilize in mid-spring, and check occasionally for common pests such as scale and spider mites.