Camellias are among the most prized early flowering shrubs, providing a vibrant display of flamboyant blossom. Being shade tolerant, these evergreens are ideal for for growing in overcast borders or beneath trees, their only drawback being their need for damp, acid soil.
In alkaline or chalky soil foliage will turn yellow with the plants struggling to thrive, but they can be grown successfully in pots or tubs, allowing you to grow them in shady paved areas or position potted specimens in borders with chalky soil.
While most C. japonica, C. williamsii and other hybrids flower in March, some varieties start blooming from January, often continuing into March or April. Sizes also vary, with slow-growing compact ‘Bokuhan’ ideal for those with little space to ‘Saint Ewe’ which needs more space, although you can control it with judicious pruning after flowering.
Besides requiring acid soil or compost, camellias like moisture, particularly important in summer when buds form for the following year. If too dry at this time buds will abort.
They also benefit from a balanced ericaceous fertiliser being worked in around the root area when new growth starts to form, with a mulch of garden compost or well-rotted organic matter, which will help retain moisture.