Kamélií

Kamélií refers to the genus Camellia, a group of evergreen shrubs and trees in the family Theaceae. These plants are native to East Asia, with species found in countries like China, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia. Kamélií are most famous for their beautiful, often showy flowers, which bloom in a variety of colors including shades of pink, red, white, and yellow, and can appear in single, semi-double, or double forms. The foliage is typically glossy, dark green, and leathery, providing an attractive backdrop for the blooms.

The most well-known species is Camellia japonica, often called the common camellia or Japanese camellia. This species is highly prized in horticulture and has given rise to numerous cultivars. Another significant species is Camellia sinensis, which is the source of tea leaves used to produce black, green, white, and oolong teas. The cultivation of Camellia sinensis for tea production has a long history, dating back thousands of years.

Kamélií generally prefer acidic, well-drained soil and thrive in partial shade, protected from harsh winds and intense direct sunlight. They are popular ornamental plants in gardens and are also cultivated commercially for their flowers and, in the case of Camellia sinensis, for tea. The genus is named after the Jesuit botanist Georg Joseph Kamel.