What is the common name for Camellia japonica?

Camellia japonica is commonly referred to as the Japanese Camellia. This designation reflects the plant's origins and its cultural significance in Japan, where it is highly valued for its beautiful flowers and glossy foliage. The Japanese Camellia is renowned for its large, showy blooms that typically appear in various shades of pink, red, and white, making it a popular choice in ornamental gardening.

The other names listed pertain to different plant species. For instance, Mexican Orange is associated with the Choisya ternata, known for its fragrant white flowers and aromatic foliage. Sasanqua Camellia refers to Camellia sasanqua, a different species that blooms earlier in the season and is often used in hedges or as ground cover due to its more compact growth habit. California Lilac, on the other hand, commonly refers to plants in the Ceanothus genus, which are known for their blue or purple flowers and are native to California. Understanding these distinctions highlights the unique qualities and cultural backgrounds of each plant, solidifying the appropriateness of "Japanese Camellia" as the correct common name for Camellia japonica.