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Winter Camellia

Camellia sasanqua, commonly known as sasanqua camellia, is a densely branched, pyramidal to oval-rounded, tree-like, evergreen shrub that typically grows to 6-10’ tall. It is native to Japan. It is ornamentally noted for its attractive dark green foliage and fall to early winter flowers. Lustrous, narrow-oval to obovate, dark green leaves (to 3” long) are cuneate and hairy on the midrib with rounded marginal teeth and pubescent petioles. Stems (reddish when young) are covered with significant pubescence. White to pale pink, 6-8 petaled, mildly aromatic flowers (2-3” diameter), each having a central mass of bright yellow-anthered stamens, bloom late summer to early winter depending on local climate. Petals fall after several days but stamens remain, with additional flowers continuing to open in succession over a period of 4-6 weeks. Flowers are followed by small rounded fruits. Species flowers are single, but cultivar flowers often come in single, semi-double or double-flowered forms, with flower colors ranging primarily from white to red. Fruit is a smooth and shiny capsule (to 3/4″ long). Description from Missouri Botanical Garden

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Winter Camellia

Winter Camellia fast facts

Scientific Name

Camellia sasanqua

Family

Theaceae

Garden Type

Rain Garden Appropriate, Anywhere

Wildlife

Birds

Native Plant Region

No

Light needs

Filtered

Water Needs

Medium

Plant Type

Evergreen, Flowering, Perennial, Shrub

Bloom Color(s)

Pink, White

Height

10 + feet

Width

5 – 10 feet

Months in Bloom

February

Safe Beneath Power Lines?

Yes
winter camellia

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