2020-05-01_Australian_Home_Beautiful

(Joyce) #1

142 HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU I MAY 2020


CAMELLIA SASANQUA
Dotted with a profusion of
small dainty blooms, sasanqua
camellias bring a garden to life
from late summer to winter. They
are the first to flower of camellias,
but their blooms last a couple
of days, before shattering and
falling, leaving behind a magical
carpet of precious petals.
BEST USED FOR: The small
leaves and dense growing form
of sasanqua makes them ideal
for hedging, particularly along
narrow areas, such as the area
beside the driveway.

CAMELLIA JAPONICA
As the garden begins to awaken
from its winter slumber, the
flowers of japonica camellias
open. Japonicas can grow into
large shrubs or small trees and
they have large blooms that can
last up to 3-4 weeks on the plant.
BEST USED FOR: Grow as
a feature shrub or small tree,
a privacy screen or informal
hedge for lightly shaded areas
of the garden. Pick flowers and
float them in a shallow bowl or
vase. There are thousands of
different varieties to choose from.

CAMELLIA RETICULATA
Often described as the ‘glamour
girls’ of camellias, reticulatas
have the largest flowers,
producing blooms up to 25cm
in diameter for certain varieties
(and can grow between 5m and
8m tall). The extravagant blooms,
often with frilled edges, appear
from late winter and continue
to flower for many months.
BEST USED FOR: They are a
stunning specimen plant placed
in full sun or bright dappled
light. Cut the flowers and enjoy
the blooms indoors.

CAMELLIA HYBRIDS
Experience the best of both
worlds with camellia hybrids.
These plants are a cross between
two camellia species, specifically
selected for hardiness, floriferous
habits, fragrance or flower size.
Miniature hybrids, with their
sweet, delicate blooms are an
especially adorable addition
to the garden.
BEST USED FOR: Anywhere in
the garden where most camellias
feature and thrive – check plant
labels or consult a camellia
specialist for local advice.

“YOU WANT camellias to (^) shine, RATHER THAN COMPETE FOR
ATTENTION WHEN FLOWERING” ~ MATT GERAKIOS, PHYTON AUSTRALIA
GROWING GUIDE
CLIMATE
Camellias will grow in most climates, from subtropical to cold zones.
Depending on the species, some camellias are more heat or frost
tolerant than others. Source plants from your local nursery, as they
will stock varieties suitable for your area.
ASPECT
Most camellias prefer a slightly shaded position, although sasanquas,
reticulatas and hybrid camellias can handle slightly more sun (but
always check plant labels when purchasing). Avoid planting in areas
with hot dry winds and if you live in a frosty area, avoid morning sun
as the sun hitting the morning dew on the shrub can burn flowers.
SOIL
Well-drained soil enriched with plenty of organic matter and compost
is essential. They also prefer a slightly more acidic soil, with a pH of
5-6.5, so add a soil acidifier, if required.
WATER
Water regularly and mulch well with an organic mulch such as lucerne
or bark chips – this will help prevent their shallow roots from drying
out. Once established, camellias are quite tough and can withstand
dry conditions (provided they’re well mulched).
FERTILISER
To get the best out of your camellias, feed in early spring and autumn
with a specialised azalea and camellia plant food. Don’t be tempted to
overfeed though – this will do more harm than good.

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