Well formed Camellia flowers dropping off

Question

I have a lovely Camellia, which I think may be a semi-double, although the stamens are not conspicuous. It is growing in a large pot of ericaceous compost and has been fed regularly. It has loads of flowers and buds. This is the first season since I bought it. The leaves – and flowers – look healthy (to my untrained eye) but the flowers are dropping almost as soon as they open. What is interesting/worrying is that when I pick up the fallen flowers, there is a noticeable hole where the stem should be?! Can anyone help?

Answer 1

It could be an issue with petal blight, a fungal infection caused from too much moisture. This article will explain more, including other common problems associated with these plants: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/camellia/identifying-and-fixing-problems-with-camellias.htm

If you don’t feel petal blight is the issue, I would look for thrips. This article will help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/controlling-thrips.htm

Answer 2

Thank you for your suggestions, Nikki. However, I don’t think it is petal blight, as the flowers are too beautiful & unmarked! And, from reading the article on thrips, where it states “This causes distorted parts to the plant or black specks which is actually the feces from the thrips. Stippled leaves or blossoms that die before opening are also a sign that you may have thrips.” I don’t think thrips are a problem either! It’s a shame I can’t include a photo on here to show you!

Answer 3

You can send us an email of your pic to [e-mail] If we can see the problem, we may be better able to help you.

Answer 4

Hi Mitramonday
I’m in Sydney and the same thing happens to me. Did you find the answer?

Answer 5

Hi blueindigo –
I’m afraid that I am still puzzled by the flowers dropping off, despite sending photos, but in fact the problem seemed to resolve itself after a while, which left me wondering if it had been a case of either too much, or too little, watering? (We had a very dry spring here in the East of England). Which of these two remains a mystery, so I guess it’s keep my fingers crossed that next year is better?! Sorry I can’t help more…..