Abstract: We examined fine root distribution dynamics at the depth of 0-40 cm soil profile for five varieties of Camellia oleifera, including “Ganwu 1”, “Ganyong 5”, “Changlin 4”, “Changlin 40” and “Gan 447”, in one year using minirhizotron technique. The temporal and spatial distribution characteristics of total root tip number (TRT), average root length density (ARLD) and average root diameter (ARD) were analyzed. The results showed that the TRT and ARLD changes of each variety were relatively stable in the second half of 2016, while there was a significant monthly fluctuation in the first half of 2017, especially for “Ganwu 1” and “Changlin 40”. The TRT and ARLD of “Ganwu 1” peaked in May 2017, while the ARD of “Changlin 4” peaked in March 2017. The TRT and ARLD values of “Ganwu 1” and the ARD value of “Changlin 4” were significantly greater than those of other varieties during the whole observation period. The spatial distribution and monthly dynamics of fine roots varied significantly among different varieties of Camellia oleifera. The fine roots were mainly distributed at the soil layer of 0-20 cm for “Ganwu 1” and“ Gan 447 ”, but at 20-40 cm for “ Changlin 4 ”and “ Changlin 40 ”. The latter two varieties had relatively stable spatial distribution and monthly dynamics of fine roots when compared to others. In contrast, the root biomass of “Ganyong 5” was not significantly different between both soil layers despite a large spatial variation. The ARD of “Changlin 4” was significantly larger at the soil layer of 20-40 cm than that of 0-20 cm. There was no significant difference in ARD between both soil layers for other varieties. In conclusion, within the five varieties, “Ganwu 1” had the greatest biomass of fine roots, which were mainly distributed in the upper soil layer, while “Changlin 4” had the largest diameter of fine roots, which were mainly distributed in the lower soil layer.