Southern Living? October Magic? Orchid? Camellia Shrub - Camellia sasanqua 'October Magic Orchid'

Southern Living® October Magic® Orchid™ Camellia Shrub (Camellia sasanqua 'October Magic Orchid')

Brighten your autumn garden with this exceptional camellia variety, renowned for its delicate orchid-pink blooms that appear when most other ornamental shrubs are fading. The Southern Living® October Magic® Orchid™ Camellia features semi-double flowers with subtle white undertones, evergreen foliage year-round, and a naturally narrow, columnar shape perfect for tight spaces. You'll want to buy the October Magic® Orchid™ Camellia online to enjoy reliable color from fall through early winter without the fuss of high-maintenance plants.

Landscaping Uses

This versatile shrub works beautifully as a focal point in garden borders, a living screen for privacy, an accent planting along pathways, or a hedge for defining garden spaces. Its compact width makes it ideal for container planting on patios, along foundation lines, or in small urban gardens where space is limited. Plant it where you can enjoy its blooms during the quieter months of the gardening year.

Specifications

Height: 8–10 feet
Width: 4–5 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Moderate; prefers well-draining soil
Soil: Well-draining, acidic to neutral
USDA Zones: 7–9

Why Homeowners Love It

• Extended bloom season fills your garden with color from autumn into early winter
• Evergreen leaves provide year-round visual interest and structure
• Naturally narrow growth habit fits seamlessly into small spaces and tight plantings
• Tough, low-maintenance plant that resists deer browse, drought stress, and cold temperatures

Planting & Care

Water the planting area thoroughly before installation. Choose a spot receiving full sun to partial shade and dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball. Position the plant slightly elevated—about 1 to 2 inches above ground level—backfill with soil, and water deeply to eliminate air pockets. Apply 1 to 2 inches of mulch around the base, keeping it clear of the stem. Water regularly during the first growing season while the root system establishes, then reduce frequency as the plant matures since camellias prefer drier conditions than many ornamentals. Fertilize once annually in late spring, and prune in early spring if shaping is desired.