The Ice Angel Camellia showcases vibrant rose-colored blossoms that measure 2 to 3 inches wide, with petals that radiate from a central cluster of contrasting golden stamens. This elegant plant deserves a prominent spot in the front yard or can be enjoyed on a patio or deck. It features glossy foliage, which makes it a lovely addition under dull shade trees. The Ice Angel Camellia thrives in the mountainous soils beneath oaks, native junipers, and maples. It grows to a size of 4 feet by 4 feet, making it well-suited for shade gardens, containers, and raised beds.
The graceful, waxy flowers of the camellia symbolize effortless elegance. Although camellias are known to be somewhat challenging to grow, if you’re willing to meet their care requirements, they will reward you with a long blooming season just when you need it most in the early spring garden.
History
Camellias are native to Southeast Asia and belong to the large genus Camellia, which includes the well-known Camellia sinensis, the plant used to produce tea worldwide. Although the flowers of Camellia sinensis may be insignificant, its leaves are harvested to make various types of tea.
The more popular flowering varieties are commonly found in gardens. Notably, Camellia japonica is the only mountain variety that can thrive in mountain elevations.
Botanical Name Camellia japonica
Common Name Camellia
Plant Type Evergreen Shrub
Mature Size 6’x5′ feet
Sun Exposure under 6hours sun to part shade
Soil Type Moist, well-drained
Soil pH Slightly acidic 5.5-7.5
Bloom Time Early Spring
Flower Color Red,pink and white
Hardiness Zones 6 to 10
Native Area Southeast Asia
Light
Camellias require protection from the harsh afternoon sun. The ideal garden spot for them is one with morning sun and dappled afternoon shade. As the plants mature, their foliage provides protection to the roots from damaging sunlight.
Soil
Camellias thrive in well-drained, slightly acidic soil. The ideal soil pH range for camellias is between 5.5 and 6.5; a higher pH can stress the plant and cause yellowing of the foliage. To adjust your soils pH, feed your camellias regularly with Watters 7-4-4 All Purpose Food.
These plants also grow well in containers if you use a rich blend of Watters Potting Soil that effectively controls soil pH.
It’s essential to choose an area with well-drained soil. Avoid spots in your garden that tend to remain soggy. If you’re uncertain about your soil’s drainage, dig a 12″x12″ hole and fill it with water. If the water drains within about 15 minutes, you have fast-draining soil that should support these beautiful flowering plants well.
Water new plants regularly with a garden hose for at least one month (2 months in Summer). Automatic irrigation systems may not be sufficient initially. Water frequency will vary according to the season, exposure, and plant size.
April – Oct this Camellia should be irrigated 2 x weekly
Nov – Mar this should be irrigated 2 x monthly
Feed 4x Times per Year with either 7-4-4 All Purpose Plant Food, Soil Sulfur, or Humic. Here’s the recommendation by season:
Spring= 7-4-4 All Purpose Food + Soil Sulfur
Summer= 7-4-4 All Purpose Food + Humic
September= 7-4-4 All Purpose Food
December= 7-4-4 All Purpose Food
Camellias can be a bit more particular than many other plants. If they are planted too deeply or have excessive mulch, their stems can rot. To plant them correctly, dig a hole that matches the depth of the root ball. Then, add a few inches of soil back into the hole to slightly raise the depth. When you place the plant in the hole, the top of the root ball should sit slightly above the surrounding soil level. Fill in the space around the root ball, making sure to slope the fill dirt up to the top of the root ball without covering it. Finally, apply a light layer of mulch, no thicker than one inch.
Pruning
Prune just after their bloom season ends; simply prune when the flowers are done in Spring.
Camellia are only available and only planted in Autumn in the mountains of Arizona. Now is the right time with many showing heavy flowers buds ready to burst into color the first of the year.
Until next week, I’ll be helping gardeners with festive holly plants here at Watters Garden Center.
Ken Lain can be found throughout the week at Watters Garden Center, 1815 Iron Springs Rd in Prescott, or contacted through his website at WattersGardenCenter.com or Top10Plants.com.
