Golden Camellia is hailed as the queen of the tea family, prized both for its ornamental beauty and its value for drinking

Golden Camellia (Camellia petelotii, also known as Camellia chrysantha) is an evergreen shrub or small tree of the genus Camellia in the tea family (Theaceae). It takes its name from its waxy, golden-yellow petals and is one of the few camellias in the world that bears yellow flowers. It is mainly distributed in parts of the forested mountain areas of southern Guangxi in China, and its wild resources are scarce, so it has been listed as a nationally protected wild plant and is known by the laudatory title of "queen of the tea family."

The leaves of Golden Camellia are leathery and glossy, and its flowers are borne singly in the leaf axils. The blooms are a bright, golden yellow, and the flowering period is mostly concentrated from autumn and winter through early spring, just when flowers are scarce, so its ornamental effect is especially striking. Its tree form is neat and elegant, making it suitable both for planting in the ground to accent a courtyard and for growing in pots on a balcony or in a bright spot indoors.

In terms of uses, the flowers and leaves of Golden Camellia can be processed into a tea substitute; once brewed, the liquor is clear and bright with a delicate aroma, and in some producing areas it is regarded as a specialty tea drink. Because wild resources are protected, Golden Camellia on the market is mostly obtained from cultivated plants, and when buying it is advisable to check whether the source is legitimate.

For growing Golden Camellia, choose a loose, fertile, well-drained, slightly acidic soil, and an environment that is warm and humid, semi-shaded and well ventilated; in summer it should be shaded appropriately to avoid scorching sun. In daily watering, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and during the growing season apply light fertilizer frequently. It can be propagated by sowing, cuttings or grafting, and with proper care it will bloom every year.