Sasanqua Camellia - a Versatile Early Bloomer!

We just received a sizable shipment of Sasanqua camellias; some are beginning to bloom. Sasanqua Camellias are, “the other Camellia,” one of the stars of the winter garden. This cousin of the commonly planted Japanese Camellia is a bit more sun tolerant (until 10:30-11:00am), and depending on the variety makes an excellent gracefully branching ground cover or espaliered shrub, informal hedge as well as an excellent container plant. You might also plant a Sasanqua Camellia under trees to give color to otherwise green backdrops. Some varieties of Sasanquas begin blooming now, and other variations are colorful at Christmas.

Planting Sasanqua Camellias

You will want to follow a regular watering schedule during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Provide well-drained soil, rich in organic matter amended with E.B. Stone Acid Planting Mix. Keep roots cool with a thick layer of mulch. Pruning time should be done in the spring after flowering has ceased.

Below find the top varieties that have outstanding ability to perform. Not only are they covered with hundreds of flowers during the fall and winter months, but the dark green evergreen foliage is a plus for any garden.

EARLY SEASON

Shishi Gashira. Semi-double to peony form, lovely soft pink blooms. Low spreader.
Show No Sakae. Semi-double to rose-form flowers with a lovely soft pink color. This camellia is very versatile and does great in a large hanging basket, as a groundcover or vining up a wall.
Yuletide: Brilliant, fiery red, single blooms centered with bright yellow stamens. Upright.

MIDSEASON

Apple Blossom is a vivid cerise red coloring edge the white petals of these large single blossoms. The crown of golden stamens adds lovely contrast. Upright growth pattern and blooms in mid-season.
White Doves. White semi-double to loose peony form. Spreader.

masterbloom Feed camellias through the cooler months with Master Bloom to promote flower and bud development. Suitable for all your blooming and fruiting plants, including roses, lilacs, perennials, azaleas, and citrus.

Feed Camellias monthly during spring and summer with Camellia, Azalea, Gardenia, & Rhododendron Food.