The Roses of Winter

It may not seem like it but we are still in winter, here in Northern California. The plants are very confused and are already in Full spring bloom!  Camellia japonica among them.

 

 

 Normally we would have colder temps and in the harshest days of winter our Camellia japonicas are there to cheer us up with their lovely blooms, perfect for bringing into the house to float in flat bowls of water or arrange in bases.

I like to call them the “roses of winter”. Big full blossoms typically in red, pink and white colors or blends of these colors. Camellia japonica is a large shrub measuring up to 10-15′ high but easily kept at 6-8′ or less. They are very hardy to cold and take moderate water but should be in a location with some shade especially from the harsh afternoon sun.

 

Maintenance of Camellias

Use an acidic soil conditioner when planting as they prefer forest conditions with lots of rich humus (organic matter) for their roots. Fertilize with Camellia-Azalea food in the fall and water in well. (see link below)

Once established these shrubs are extremely long lasting and sturdy.

Pick up the flower heads as they fall to avoid spots on the petals called petal blight.

Water your mature shrubs once a week deeply in the warm months. New shrubs should be watered twice a week or more depending on the temperature. Mulch them heavily to keep roots cool and pull mulch away from plant crowns to avoid crown rot.

Camellias have a Large Number of Species and Hybrids

There is another other species of Camellias- Camellia sasanqua which are smaller plants and bloom in fall, but for a great winter bloom check out the japonicas. This is the perfect time to see them in botanical, residential or public gardens.

Descanso Gardens in the LA area has a beautiful forest of Camellia japonicas.