One of Southern California’s winter blooming plants in the
garden is the camellia.
Camellias include about 80 species most of which are used as
ornamental plants. The leaves are leathery and evergreen. They are native to
southern and eastern Asia, and have been cultivated in China, Japan and Korea
for centuries.
They are easy to grow in Southern California with a little
extra care, some shade and plenty of organic mulch.
I planted several shrubs a few years ago and they are now in
full bloom. I planted the Japonica variety
which is characterized by huge, double blooms.
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| Pink Japonica Camellia |
Once they are established, they require little maintenance
and you can enjoy their blooms every year. In Southern California where summer
can be dry and hot, plant them where there is some shade to protect the plant
from the scorching sun. Weekly watering is also recommended to prevent the
plant from drying out.
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| Red Japonica Camellia |
Late winter to early spring is the best time to buy and
plant camellias. Buy the plant that is already in bloom so you know how the
bloom looks like.
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| Bud of a Red Japonica Ready to Open |
