Camellia

The Best Camellia Plants In New Zealand

Camellias are a beloved choice for gardeners across New Zealand. Known for their lush foliage and vibrant flowers, these beautiful shrubs can enhance any garden space. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, camellias are an excellent choice for adding colour and texture to your outdoor space. In this article, we'll explore the best camellia plants you can find in New Zealand, where to buy them, and tips for growing these stunning flowering shrubs.

Understanding Camellias

Before diving into the best camellia plants, it's important to understand what makes these shrubs so special. Camellias are evergreen shrubs that are native to Asia. They are known for their shiny, dark green leaves and showy flowers, which can range in colour from white to deep red. The flowers can be single, semi-double, or double, offering a wide variety of options for your garden.

History and Origin

Camellias have a rich history that dates back centuries in Asia, where they were first cultivated. Originating from countries like China, Japan, and Korea, these plants have been appreciated for both their beauty and versatility. In Asian cultures, camellias are often associated with love and affection, symbolizing admiration and longevity. This historical context adds a layer of depth to their appeal in gardens today.

Botanical Characteristics

The botanical characteristics of camellias make them uniquely captivating. Their leathery leaves are not just visually appealing but also serve as a protective shield against pests and harsh weather conditions. Camellia flowers come in a spectrum of forms, with some resembling roses while others mimic peonies. This variety in form and colour makes them a versatile choice for gardeners looking to create diverse visual displays.

Growing Conditions

Camellias thrive in specific growing conditions, which are crucial for their health and vitality. They prefer acidic to neutral soil that is rich in organic matter, mimicking their natural forest floor habitat. Providing adequate moisture is essential, but it's equally important to ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Understanding these growing conditions allows gardeners to cultivate camellias that flourish and bloom profusely.

Types of Camellias

There are several types of camellias, but the most common varieties in New Zealand are Camellia japonica, Camellia sasanqua, and Camellia reticulata. Each has its own unique characteristics:

Camellia Japonica

• Camellia japonica is celebrated for its large, showy flowers and glossy leaves, making it a staple in many gardens. These camellias are winter bloomers, providing much-needed colour during the colder months. They thrive in shady spots, making them perfect for formal gardens or areas where other plants might struggle. Their versatility in shade makes them a valuable addition to any garden design.

Camellia Sasanqua

• Camellia sasanqua is a more adaptable variety, capable of handling sunnier positions compared to its counterparts. Blooming from autumn to early winter, these camellias are ideal for creating hedges or screens due to their dense growth habit. Sasanqua varieties are known for their subtle fragrance, adding an olfactory dimension to their visual appeal. Their ability to thrive in different light conditions makes them a practical choice for diverse garden settings.

Camellia Reticulata

• Camellia reticulata is renowned for its large, ruffled flowers, which are a breathtaking sight in any garden. Though less common, they are highly prized for their striking blooms and are best suited for sheltered spots. These camellias bloom from late winter to spring, offering a beautiful transition into the warmer seasons. Their unique form and colour make them a standout feature in any landscape design, providing a touch of elegance and sophistication.

Best Camellias for New Zealand Gardens

New Zealand's climate is ideal for growing camellias, and there are many beautiful varieties to choose from. Here are some of the best camellia plants you can find:

Camellia 'Donation'

• A popular choice among gardeners, Camellia 'Donation' is known for its large, semi-double, pink flowers. It blooms from late winter to early spring and makes a stunning focal point in any garden. This variety is also relatively hardy and can tolerate a range of conditions. Its adaptability makes it suitable for gardeners with varying levels of experience, providing beauty with minimal fuss.

Camellia 'Transnokoensis'

• If you're looking for a camellia with a unique appearance, consider Camellia 'Transnokoensis'. This variety features small, white flowers with a delightful fragrance. Its compact growth habit makes it an excellent choice for smaller gardens or as a container plant. The delicate blooms of 'Transnokoensis' can add a touch of elegance to patios and balconies, bringing nature's charm into urban settings.

Camellia 'Setsugekka'

• Camellia 'Setsugekka' is a beautiful sasanqua variety with large, pure white flowers and a soft fragrance. It blooms in autumn and early winter, providing a burst of colour when many other plants are dormant. This variety is also great for hedging due to its dense foliage. The pristine white flowers can serve as a perfect backdrop for more colourful garden elements, enhancing the overall aesthetics of your outdoor space.

Camellia 'Yuletide'

• For a vibrant splash of colour, consider Camellia 'Yuletide'. This sasanqua variety produces bright red, single flowers with striking yellow stamens. It blooms from autumn to early winter and can brighten up any garden space. The cheerful appearance of 'Yuletide' flowers can lift spirits during the dreary months and create a festive atmosphere, especially around the holiday season.

Camellia 'Fairy Blush'

• Camellia 'Fairy Blush' offers an enchanting display with its small, blush pink flowers. Blooming from late winter into spring, this variety is perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to your garden. Its compact size makes it ideal for containers or as an accent plant in mixed borders. The gentle hues of 'Fairy Blush' can complement a wide range of garden styles, from cottage to contemporary.

Tips for Growing Camellias

Growing camellias in New Zealand is relatively straightforward, but there are a few key tips to keep in mind to ensure your plants thrive:

Planting Location

Camellias prefer well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of light conditions depending on the variety. Japonica varieties do well in partial to full shade, while sasanqua varieties can handle more sun. Be sure to choose a location that provides protection from harsh winds, as camellias can be sensitive to drying out. Strategic planting can create microclimates that enhance the growth and health of your camellias.

Watering and Feeding

Camellias require regular watering, especially during dry spells. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and keep roots cool. Fertilize camellias in spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth. Consistent care in watering and feeding can lead to robust plants that are less susceptible to disease and pests.

Pruning and Maintenance

Pruning camellias is best done after flowering, in late spring or early summer. Remove any dead or damaged wood and shape the plant to encourage a dense, bushy growth habit. Camellias generally require minimal pruning, but regular maintenance can help keep them looking their best. Proper pruning techniques can enhance flower production and improve the overall structure of the plant.

Pest and Disease Management

While camellias are relatively hardy, they can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Regular inspection of your plants can help catch any issues early. Common pests include aphids and scale insects, which can be managed with appropriate treatments. Fungal diseases can be prevented with good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. Taking proactive steps can ensure your camellias remain healthy and vibrant.

Where To Buy Best Quality Camellia Plants In NZ

Buying quality plants can be a challenge at times. However, The Plant Company makes this job easy by offering a comprehensive range of high quality Camellia varieties. We appreciate that buying online is somewhat of a leap of faith given you are putting your trust in us. Therefore, we only ship plants that we would happily buy and plant ourselves. We propagate and nurture plants ready for their new home, and take pride in exceeding our customers’ expectations. Our impressive Google Rating shows we are good at what we do!

Where To Buy Bulk Camellia Plants

The Plant Company has a large-scale production nursery and offers a comprehensive range of Camellia varieties. If you are after bulk lots of plants, please be sure to contact us for pricing and availability. Our talented staff can not only manage all aspects of getting the plants to you, but any other plant related enquiries you may have. Our impressive Google Rating shows we are good at what we do!

What To Consider When Buying A Camellia

A cheap Camellia plant usually comes in a very small pot and has both small foliage and small roots. The small plant can be appealing when you are on a budget, however, think of such plants like babies. They only have a small root system, so they need careful attention to watering. They are also more vulnerable to disease and subsequent death. The Plant Company therefore recommends you only buy plants in a 1.5L pot or bigger to have the greatest chance of success, even if you are on a budget. Any savings by buying small are lost when they die and you have to replace them! Moreover, the plants need to be “chunky”, have a strong root system, and show no signs of disease. Be sure to check out our range of Camellia varieties so you are buying the best plants at a competitive price.

Where To Buy Large Grade Camellias

Sometimes you just don’t want to wait for a plant to grow, and you want the instant display now. The Plant Company often has large grade Camellia available, and commonly has even larger grades that are not listed for sale on our website. Please contact us and our amazing team will let you know options and pricing for delivery to your desired location.