The camellia is a flowering plant belonging to the family Theaceae. It is native to Asia, particularly in regions like China, Japan, and Korea. Camellias are known for their beautiful, glossy leaves and large, showy flowers that can be white, pink, or red. They typically bloom in late winter to early spring, making them popular in gardens and landscapes. There are several species and hybrids of camellias, with Camellia japonica being one of the most well-known. These plants thrive in well-drained, acidic soil and prefer partial shade. Camellias are also valued for their oil, which is extracted from the seeds of some species, such as Camellia oleifera.