I think camellias are much easier than gardenias. Although fragrant camellias have been developed, I've never smelled one and I don't think they would be as heavenly as a gardenia.

Thanks Melle. Are they hardy enough to be planted in the ground without having to worry about nematodes or chlorosis? Or are they happier in pots?

Your problem is going to be the heat during the Zone 10 summer. You don't want them to dry out. They like moist, but not wet, shady soil. They can stand morning sun, but they will not florish with hot mid-day or afternoon sun. You will have to keep them well mulched. They are a hardy plant and I think they would be happier in the ground than in a pot. They are worth trying. Look around and see if your neighbors have them. If they don't, it's a good sign that your particular area is not good for them.

I've seen camellias be successful both in pots and in the ground but they can dry out easier in pots so potted camellias probably require more attention. I agree with PeaBee4, camellias are definitely worth a try. I live in zone 9 and summers here are pretty hot but camellias are successful (and probably overplanted) but I can't say how they would do in zone 10. Good luck!

PeaBee and Melle,
Thanks. I have a couple of spots that would be partly shaded by some smallish palms. I could also maybe try one in a large terra cotta pot and keep it in the shady part of the patio. Either way, I would like to give one a try if I see one in the stores.
Thanks again.

I gardened in Miami (zone 10) for eighteen years and never saw a camellia. Soil pH is an important limitation. Summer temperatures is not an issue but the length of the summer may be.

I think maybe Camellias don't get enough Winter chill for good flowering in South Florida?? Anyone know for sure??

Growing both Camellias and Gardenias is mandatory in the South!!!

Dave,
I agree with you on it being mandatory to grow these plants in the south. The first time I ever saw a gardenia I was down here about 12 years go visiting my parents. Just outside the mall I was hit with this INCREDIBLE smell. Turns out there were 2 huge gardenias in full bloom a few feet away. Well, that was it. I never forgot that and I was sold. When I moved down here this past July, the first thing I did was buy a gardenia.
Happy gardening!
Lynne

You could be right about the Winter Chill factor. That's the reason that lilacs don't bloom down in the zone 9. The bushes do just fine, but there isn't enough cool hours at night long enough for them to set buds. It could be that camellias are the same.