A vigorous upright evergreen shrub, with glossy dark green, elliptic leaves with finely serrated edges. Flowers are anemone-form to 9cm across, and a deep plum red with a mass of upright frilly petals in the centre, and a silvery sheen on the outer petals. Flowers over a long period from early to late spring
4-8 metres
4-8 metres
| Season | Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||||
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Prefers acidic soil with plenty of organic matter and good drainage. Position in light shade, and shelter from cold, dry winds and early morning sun, as buds and flowers may be damaged by cold winds and late frosts. See camellia cultivation for more detailed advice
Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer, or by grafting in late winter
See pruning group 8 (evergreens)
May be susceptible to aphids, scale insects and vine weevil
May be susceptible to honey fungus, phytophthora root rot, camellia gall, camellia leaf blight, and camellia yellow mottle virus. Flowers may be infected by camellia petal blight