Camellia japonica

[Ilovesoutherncomfort]

I have just been given the most gorgeous camellia for Mother’s Day.
Is this the same as a peoni rose?
I only have a small patio garden where all my plants are in pots and containers and I am still a novice.
Can I put it outside now? Will it thrive in a container and if so how big a container and what medium should I plant it in?
Thanks all.

Yes, a camellia japonica will survive. I'd put it in as large a pot you have. They do not especially like east facing positions as morning sun damages their flowers if it's been frosty. So no direct morning sun if that's possible. They do well in semi-shade. Make sure you harden off if it's been living inside so far

Camellias don't like alkaline soils, so best to use ericaceous compost in your container.

I have a huge one that is thriving in full sun, though it's east side is against a fence for protection. Our soil is quite acidic but if you want to keep it in a pot you can just use ericaceous compost. They are beautiful, here's mine in the sun today.

They need to be watered well in the summer which is when they make the buds for the next year and prefer rainwater to tap water. But if you only have tap water that is better than no water .