Abstract: The growth index, soil quality and root spatial distribution（diameter≥1 cm）of Sichuan Camellia seedlings in 24 sites of Yongchuan urban area of Chongqing city were investigated, to explore the impact factors of Sichuan Camellia in landscape application. The results showed that the seedlings with a diameter of 4.0~7.9 cm, a height of 1.61~2.32 m, and a crown width of 1.31~1.96 m were widely used in the urban landscape application. Based on the evaluation standard of growth potential （the new shoots length ≥ 4.11 cm or thickness ≥ 0.241 cm）, 62.5% of Sichuan Camellia seedlings was above the medium level; Sichuan Camellia seedling usually lives in semi-shaded envirenment, which could also be planted in full light environment. There was no significant difference in the length and diameter of new shoots between seedlings planted in road green space under full light and semi-shaded environment; the slightly alkaline pH value and the lower content of organic matter were the characteristic in the investigated soil. In daily maintenance of Sichuan Camellia, adjusting soil acid, increasing chemical fertilizer and improving the content of organic matter in the depth of 40 cm soil within 1 m around the tree trunk were suggested to restore the plant growth potential.

Key words: Sichuan Camellia, growth potential, spatial distribution of root system, Yongchuan urban area