CAMELLIAS ARE A POPULAR EVERGREEN SHRUB IN THE RICHMOND AREA
Camellias have been a popular flowering evergreen shrub in this area for decades. They can be a little confusing because of the different species and the thousands of different cultivars. But, with this blog, I am going to concentrate on the two most popular forms of camellias. These two forms are the Camellia japonica and the Camellia sasanqua. Here is the biggest difference between these two types of camellias. Camellia japonica is a spring-blooming camellia. Camellia sasanqua is a late fall / winter-blooming camellia.
Both varieties have flowers that range in color from white to red and pink, as well as variegated. The flower forms can be single, semi-double, peony, or formal double.
Similarities Between Spring and Fall Camellias
- Both are evergreen shrubs that grow to be 6’ to 12’ in height and width. Growth is somewhat slow.
- Both are hardy in our Zone 7 area.
- Both like to be planted in a little shade. However, the sasanqua is more tolerant of more sun than the japonica varieties.
- Both require a rich, well-draining, acidic soil
- Both want to be given a good, quality fertilizer once finished blooming
Differences Between Spring and Fall Camellias
- Prune fall-blooming sasanqua in very early spring. Flower buds will start forming in late spring.
- Prune spring-blooming japonica once it is finished blooming.
Popular Spring-Blooming Camellias
- Greenboro Red
- White by the Gate
- April Tryst
- Pink Perfection
- Nuccio’s Gem
Popular Fall-Blooming Camellias
- Yuletide
- Bonanza
- Hana Jiman
- Cleopatra
- Setsugekka
We carry all these varieties plus more. In the spring we do concentrate having more japonica varieties. And, in the fall we concentrate to carry more of the fall blooming varieties. But, in either case, be sure to come see us and let us help you in finding that perfect camellia for you.
IT’S SPRING SO LET’S PLANT A LITTLE HAPPINESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!