ShrubsCamellia japonica
Japanese Camellia
Japanese camellia is a stunning evergreen shrub with glossy dark green foliage and spectacular, rosette-shaped flowers in red, pink or white appearing from January to April — a welcome splash of colour in early spring. The elegant blooms resemble roses and can be double or single-petalled.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Partial shade
- Water
- Medium
- Height
- 200–400 cm
- Spread
- 150–300 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 7–9
- Family
- Theaceae
- Evergreen
- Yes
- Flower colors
- red, pink, white
- Wildlife value
- bees
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in partial shade sheltered from cold east winds and morning sun (which can damage frozen buds). Use acid, humus-rich, well-drained soil. Keep the ground evenly moist, especially during bud formation. Water with rainwater if your tap water is chalky.
Pruning tips
Prune immediately after flowering. Remove dead and crossing branches. Light shaping is sufficient — camellias grow slowly and naturally maintain a handsome form. Remove damaged or brown flowers to keep a tidy appearance.
Good companions
ShrubsPieris japonica
Japanese Andromeda
Japanese andromeda is an elegant evergreen shrub that captivates three times a year: in spring with graceful, drooping clusters of white bell-shaped flowers; then with spectacular red or bronze new foliage that gradually turns green; and year-round with its compact, glossy canopy. A jewel in the shade border.
ShrubsRhododendron catawbiense
Rhododendron
The Rhododendron is an evergreen shrub that produces spectacular clusters of purple or pink flowers in May and June above glossy dark-green foliage. The shrub can grow quite large and makes an imposing presence in partial shade. Rhododendrons are iconic in woodland gardens and rural plantings.
ShrubsFatsia japonica
Japanese Aralia
Japanese aralia is a tough evergreen shrub with spectacularly large, glossy dark green, palmate leaves that create an exotic, tropical feel. In October and November rounded clusters of creamy-white flowers appear, followed by black berries that attract birds. Excellent as a structural plant in shady gardens.