My Dr. Tinsley appears to have 'balls', similar to rose hips on roses. What is thisshould I remove them? (They are about 1 &1/2 inches in diameter.)

Answer #1 · Maple Tree's Answer · Hi Barbara-What you are seeing is the camellia hip or seed pod. If your camellia was not deadheaded (removal of the spent flowers) the camellia will develop this fruit that contains the camellia seeds. The younger seed pods on my japonicas are greenish pink then turn brown as they mature. Just like the roses you mentioned the camellia will produce a seed pod if flowers are left on the bush. It is best to remove the spent flowers so that the plant puts its energy into making new foliage and sets a lot of flowers for the following season. I uploaded a few pictures of the Camellia japonica seed pod for you to compare with what you are seeing.

Please ask if you have any other questions.

John)