How to Grow Sasanqua Camellia 'Cleopatra'
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Sasanqua Camellia 'Cleopatra'
Camellia sasanqua 'Cleopatra'
shrubCamellia sasanqua 'Cleopatra' is a semi-double flowered evergreen shrub prized for its vibrant red blooms that appear in fall and winter. This cultivar is more cold-hardy and sun-tolerant than many camellias, making it suitable for a wider range of gardeners. It offers year-round foliage interest and reliable flowering when most gardens are dormant.
When should you plant Sasanqua Camellia 'Cleopatra' in your zone?
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Example Sasanqua Camellia 'Cleopatra' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Sasanqua Camellia 'Cleopatra'
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Sasanqua Camellia 'Cleopatra'
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 7-10; can survive zone 6 with protection
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Get my Sasanqua Camellia 'Cleopatra' timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
First yearYoung plant with minimal growth; focusing on root development rather than shoot growth
Water regularly and deeply; apply 2-3 inches of acidic mulch; shelter from harsh winds; avoid fertilizing first year
Vegetative Growth
Years 2-3Compact evergreen shrub developing dense foliage; glossy dark green leaves; gradual height and width increase
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape; fertilize in spring with acid-loving plant food; maintain consistent moisture
Bud Development
August-OctoberFlower buds appear in summer and early fall; buds are small and hard, gradually enlarging
Reduce nitrogen fertilizer; maintain consistent watering; avoid pruning during this phase; protect from hard freezes
Flowering
October-December (sometimes into January)Semi-double red flowers with prominent yellow stamens emerge; flowers are 2-3 inches across; blooms appear sequentially
Enjoy the flowers; deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowering; protect from hard freezes that damage buds
Post-Flowering
January-MarchFlowers fade and fall; plant enters dormancy but remains evergreen; minimal visible change
Can prune now if needed; reduce watering slightly; prepare for spring growth; clean up fallen petals and debris
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with horticultural oil in dormant season; prune heavily infested branches; improve air circulation
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Increase humidity; spray with water to dislodge; use miticide if severe; ensure adequate moisture
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Remove and destroy infested buds and flowers; apply neem oil; difficult to control once inside buds
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Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering; apply fungicide to severely affected plants; improve soil with amendments
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Remove infected flowers promptly; rake and dispose of fallen petals; apply fungicide at bud stage in wet weather
Uses
Cut flowers and floral arrangements
HouseholdSemi-double red blooms with prominent yellow stamens are striking in floral displays and arrangements. The long vase life and winter blooming period make Camellia sasanqua 'Cleopatra' valuable for indoor decoration when other flowers are scarce. [source]
Pollinator support in winter
WildlifeThe flowers attract bees and other pollinators during late fall and winter when food sources are limited. The evergreen foliage also provides shelter and nesting sites for birds and beneficial insects. [source]
Camellia tea from leaves
CulinaryCamellia sasanqua leaves can be dried and brewed into a delicate, slightly floral tea with potential health benefits. This represents the historical relationship between camellias and tea production in Asia. [source]
Traditional herbal medicine
MedicinalIn Asian traditional medicine, camellia flowers and leaves have been used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Modern research explores polyphenol compounds in Camellia species. [source]
Ornamental landscape specimen
CraftThe dense evergreen form, reliable winter blooms, and elegant red flowers make this cultivar an outstanding focal point in gardens. Its hardiness compared to other camellias makes it accessible to more gardeners for specimen planting. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut blooms in early morning when fully open; place immediately in cool water; remove lower leaves; blooms last 1-2 weeks in a vase; can be enjoyed on the plant for 2-3 weeks or more depending on weather
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Camellia sasanqua 'Cleopatra' is more sun and cold-tolerant than the more familiar Camellia japonica, making it a game-changer for gardeners in cooler climates—the 'Sasanqua' species evolved in windy, exposed mountain regions of Japan
- 🌱 The semi-double flower form is a prized trait in camellia breeding; 'Cleopatra' produces a consistent, reliable semi-double bloom year after year, unlike single or variable cultivars
- 🌱 Sasanqua camellias bloom in fall and early winter while japonicas bloom in late winter and spring, allowing collectors to have camellia flowers for months by planting both types
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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