Camellias

             

Camellia sasanqua

            Camellias are perfect for filling in the gap between late summer and early spring flowers.  Starting in October, Camellia sasanqua begins a delightful show of rose-like flowers.  Blooming continues through January. Later in the winter season, Camellia japonica starts its show and blooms as late as April. Under ideal conditions, camellias can bloom 6-8 weeks and survive for generations.
       

     Most plantings in my yard were experimental. 19 years after they were planted, my camellias are a success story. I planted 3 Camellia sasanquas in different locations around the house. Due to varying microclimates, each camellia blooms at a different time. This allows us to enjoy each bush individually in its glory. Microclimates are caused by location-related variables that affect plant growth.  Examples are sun and wind exposure, warmth or protection from a brick wall, rain off a gutter, and soil drainage or slope conditions.

     Camellias are available in white and various shades of pink and red.  Select the healthiest plants from reputable suppliers.  New cultivars and hybrids with double blooms and increased winter hardiness may be available.  Alternatively, camellias can self-seed near a mother plant.  Check with your gardener friends to obtain a free plant.

     Camellias are perennial evergreen bushes. Each year the number of flowers increases with the size of the bush.  Keep the future tree-like proportions of a camellia in mind when choosing the planting site.  Like azaleas, camellias prefer acidic soil of 5.5-6.5 and partial shade. Many area soils are naturally acidic, but you can have your soil tested through your county extension office. 

     I have found camellias to be low-maintenance plants.  There is little deer or insect predation.  They grow big enough to offer cover for birds visiting a bird feeder. Place the feeder far enough from the camellia so it can’t be used as a launching pad for squirrels.  Prune wayward branches and unwanted growth after blooming in late winter or early spring.

     If you’re already a camellia owner, take the time to appreciate this winter color, and, if you’re not, plan on obtaining one soon.

This article is an update to one I published in the Franklin Times on January 6, 2012.

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