Camellia Leaf Problems


The brownish black areas on the leaves of the plant were caused by excess direct sunlight. These areas turn yellow at first, then gradually darken as the tissue dies. Often the dead tissue is then infected by secondary fungal pathogens. Japonica and reticulata camellias are more susceptible than sasanquas, so they are best planted in sheltered positions with protection from the hot midday sun.


Yellow leaves can indicate that a plant is suffering from a nutrient deficiency or is affected by cold weather, but yellow blotches on camellia leaves are often caused by a virus. Normally only a few leaves show symptoms, which can range from a few spots to almost the whole leaf being yellow. This unnamed virus is associated with marbled flower colours, and camellia breeders sometimes deliberately infect plants to achieve particular colour combinations in the flowers. Control measures are not necessary, as the overall vigour of the plant is not affected. The virus cannot be cured but if you wish you can simply trim off any shoots which have yellow leaves.