I don't grow Yuletide (but am thinking about getting one). However, in my neck of the woods I was told both by camellia nurseries and members of our local camellia society to not plant camellias any closer than 7 feet apart. I am told for "normal" plantings, 10 foot spacing is better. For the area around my screenhouse I went with the 7 foot centers so they will eventually meet for privacy, afterwhich I will have to keep them pruned. These are all 10 gallon plants, so are fairly large already. They are also VERY happy, which is a bit unsettling considering the spacing.

I have a friend who has a gorgeous Yuletide by her house. It is the size of a tree. I'm thinking they grow fairly fast once they get going, if they are happy and in a favorable climate.

Sandy