Often referred to as ‘The Winter Rose,' camellias have a rich history, dynamic color and speculative meaning. When choosing camellias, did you ever consider the significance behind this plant?
Camellias at Garden Supply Co. in Cary, N.C.
The history of camellias roots back to cultivators in Asia centuries-before arriving in Europe in the 18th century. The earliest noted camellias were used to make tea and are still coveted for this purpose. Today’s most popular, ornamental varieties bear decorative blooms ranging in color from white, to pink, to red. Like roses, the deeper the shade the more intense the emotional symbolism.
white- friendly admiration
pink- adoration, longing, missing a friend or loved one
red- love, passion, deep desire
Gift a camellia this Valentine’s Day! Camellias will survive and thrive both in the ground and in containers. Prune robust shrubs and grow for cut flowers. Choose a shade that represents the reason for planting or gifting. Consider the following factors when planting your new favorite flowering evergreen…
Camellia Sasanqua Yuletide
Variety selection- Garden Supply Co. carries cold-tolerant camellias in several sizes and colors. Plant camellias in containers or in the ground and consider mulching around the base to protect newly establishing roots. Camellias will thrive in part sun to shade but are not drought tolerant.
Soil selection- Plant your camellias in a well-draining, acidic soil. Use a soil-acidifier to lower the ph of extremely alkaline soil. If planting in a container, use an enhanced potting medium like Espoma All-Purpose soil mixed with the plant’s existing soil and always sprinkle a generous amount of our favorite root-enhancing fertilizer, Bio-tone, beneath the roots in either case.
Plant maintenance- Camellias grown in containers will require more water than those planted in the ground. Water your container-grown camellias when the top 2-3 inches of soil feels dry and allow to drain thoroughly. Fertilize with Holly-tone, a granular option perfect for camellias, evergreens and other acid-loving plants. Prune your camellias at the end of their bloom cycle. Shape plants after flowering, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
This flowering shrub holds significance in our country and around the world. White camellias are featured on New Zealand’s 10-dollar-note, ‘Camellia’ is the name of the 10th-hole at the Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia and the camellia is Alabama’s state flower. With as many as 3000 cultivars and hybrids to chose from, Garden Supply Co. hand-picked the best varieties for our area in North Carolina!