More information on successfully growing camellias is available in HGIC 1062, Camellia . This is one of the most serious of all camellia diseases and is caused by the fungus Glomerella cingulata. Leaves on affected branches suddenly turn yellow and wilt. Branch tips usually die. Parts of the plant above the stem canker lose vigor, wilt and die.
Damaged plants show more symptoms during hot, dry weather.
Plant in a well-drained acidic soil, avoid wounding and fertilize properly. Remove diseased twigs by pruning several inches below the cankered areas. Disinfect pruning tools between all cuts, using a solution of one part household bleach to nine parts water. Fungicides, such as copper salts of fatty acids and thiophanate-methyl, can be applied during wet periods and normal leaf drop periods to protect fresh leaf scars from infection. Apply all chemicals according to directions on the label.