Camellias thrive in part shade. Protect them from the early morning sun which would scorch the blooms still soaked with dew. Protect them also from the direct hot summer afternoon sun. Older camellia plants can thrive in full sun when they are mature enough to have their roots shaded by a dense canopy of leaves. Camellias are not the easiest shrub to grow, and the saying "Right plant right place" is crucial when growing Camellias, which will only thrive in the right spot with the correct soil. Camellias are shallow-rooted and require well-drained, acid soil. Mature plants are water wise and drought tolerant.