Just when other garden flowers are fading, camellias begin to shine. These coveted fall and winter blooming shrubs are a must-have for every garden in Zones 6-10, adding stunning color to shady spaces, just when we need it most.
“With beautiful, year-round green foliage and sophisticated, colorful blooms, there’s no denying that camellias are in a league of their own,” said Katie Tamony, plant expert and trend spotter for Monrovia. “They truly are the perfect addition to any style of garden.”
The two most common types of camellias are Camellia japonica and Camellia sasanqua. Camellia japonica generally has bigger flowers and leaves, and Camellia sasanqua usually has smaller flowers but can tolerate a little more heat and sun. While the exact variety and weather play a role, Camellia japonica typically blooms in late winter to spring, and Camellia sasanqua blooms from fall into winter.
So, why should gardeners choose camellias? Here are four reasons:
1. Camellias are showstoppers.
With glossy green foliage year-round and stunning seasonal blooms, any gardener will love having these beauties in their landscape.
“There are so many varieties of camellias, and they all offer something unique,” said Tamony. “Gardeners have a wide range of options to choose from when it comes to the size and look of blooms, along with an array of colors, including shades of pink, red, white, peach and more.”
One favorite is Monrovia’s exclusive Pink-A-Boo® Camellia. Discovered at Monrovia’s growing facility in California, this sport of Yuletide offers pretty pink blooms with sunny yellow centers. Pink-A-Boo and several other camellia varieties were chosen to be part of Monrovia’s Landscape Legends selections in celebration of the company’s 100th birthday.
2. Camellias are low-maintenance, once established.
Camellias often get a bad rap for being difficult to grow, but the opposite is true – with one caveat. Gardeners need the right conditions to find success. Camellias need acidic soil and shade, and they won’t make it in climates that are too cold. Monrovia’s Ice Angels® series has been a game changer for many gardeners, since they’re hardy to Zone 6.
These plants thrive in the Southeast and all along the West Coast, and anywhere conditions are right. Camellias require minimal care once the plant is established. Visit Monrovia.com for growing tips and the "My Plantfinder" tool.
3. Camellias provide elegant privacy.
These plants can be used in so many ways, making them perfect for adding privacy to any outdoor space. Camellias can be planted as hedges, or trained as an espalier to grow on the side of a fence or wall. They also do well on a trellis, making an excellent option for tight spaces such as a patio.
4. Camellias are great for containers.
Gardeners can enjoy camellias on decks and patios simply by planting in a container. A potted camellia also is a stunning choice for a statement entrance or placed outside a window for a gorgeous view. Choosing a variety that is suitable for the space and container is key.
“Homeowners are viewing patios and decks as an extension of their living rooms,” said Tamony. “Planting in containers brings the garden into this gathering space to create a place to unwind surrounded by easy-to-maintain beauty. Camellias fit into this trend so well, adding a relaxing aesthetic to any space.”
Looking for more information on designing and planting camellias? Learn more here.
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By: Natalie Carmolli for Proven Winners® ColorChoice® Shrubs
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