Camellias

One of the most popular of flowering shrubs, the Camellia is still underused. It is known for the profusion, beauty, and variety of its flowers. Within the dozen or so species, there are thousands of cultivars now listed, most of which descended from Camellia japonica, which was introduced to Europe in the early eighteenth century from China.

Regardless of which species or variety you choose, they are all evergreen shrubs or small trees. The foliage is quite lovely, being a deep, glossy green that lends itself well to arrangements and wreaths. The flowers are always in the white-pink-red range with the exception of a small group of species that have yellow to bronze yellow flowers.

In addition to the ornamentals, some camellias have economic importance of another sort. The tea many of us enjoy on a daily basis comes from the young leaves of Camellia sinensis, which is now grown in many parts of the world, besides China. It is a vigorous, multi-stemmed variety bearing small, fragrant white flowers in early fall. It is tolerant of full sun to deep shade. This is the tea that is most widely cultivated for drinking. Camellia oleifera is grown for the valuable oil used in cooking and cosmetics, which is pressed from its seeds.

Many folks find camellias intimidating because of their formal character. Rest assured, they are easily grown, given the right conditions. As a rule, camellias grow best in mild, humid climates. Most cultivars are moderately frost hardy, keeping them best suited for zones 7 and above. With protection from harsh winds, they do well in most all areas of Virginia. Preferring slightly acidic soil that has been enriched with organic matter, an Eastern or Northern exposure is optimum. It is important to provide good drainage in order to prevent phytophthora root rot, but they like to be kept moist. Some varieties adapt well to cultivation in pots and they can be quite lovely and dramatic as specimens, in the form of standards or espaliered. Camellias range in size from four to ten feet in height, and three to five feet in width. As they bloom on old wood, they must be pruned immediately after flowering.

The flowers of Camellias are categorized into six main groups; single, semi-double, anemone, peony, rose double form and formal double. The bloom sizes vary from miniature (2.5" or less), small (2.5" to 3"), medium (3" to 4"), large (4-5"), and very large (over 5").

The blooming periods are early (December to January), mid-season (January to March) and late season (March to May). Generally, the most likely candidates to be found in your local garden center are Camellia japonica, which bloom early to late season, Camellia sasanqua, which bloom from now until December, Camellia hiemalis, which bloom in the fall, or hybrids. This latter category tends to be a bit colder hardy and bloom early season. If you are fortunate enough to stumble onto Camellia sinensis, do pick up one or two. The flowers are small, white with yellow centers, and fragrant. How fun it is, knowing one has tea available, right outside the door!

Because they are all tend to entice us with their beautiful (and sometimes fragrant) blossoms, attractive foliage, and graceful elegance, it can be difficult to choose a favorite among the many varieties. Why not add one of each, and enjoy many months of beauty during an otherwise dreary season? Live well, plant happy!