How Camellias evolved with the formation of the Japanese archipelago?

Japan Sea element plants are generally thought to have evolved from closely related species on the Pacific side. Camellia japonica and Camellia rusticana were also believed to follow this pattern. However, a new study revealed that their origins trace back to the Miocene, when the Japanese archipelago separated from the continent.

source https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/01/250126233532.htm