Camellias: Elegant Colour When the Garden Needs It Most (February Subscription Box)

When much of the garden is still waking from winter, camellias step forward with quiet confidence, bringing glossy evergreen foliage and beautifully formed blooms just when colour feels most needed. Often called the queen of winter flowers, camellias are a timeless favourite for gardeners looking to add structure, elegance, and early-season interest.

At The Rose Press Garden, we love camellias for their ability to brighten borders, patios, and containers long before spring fully arrives.

Why Grow Camellias?

Camellias are prized for their stunning rose-like flowers, which appear from late winter into early spring depending on the variety. Their blooms range from soft blush pinks and pure whites to rich reds, creating a sophisticated display during the quieter gardening months.

Beyond their flowers, camellias offer year-round beauty thanks to their deep green, glossy evergreen leaves — making them just as valuable for structure as they are for colour.

Where to Plant Camellias

Camellias thrive in a sheltered position with dappled shade, protected from strong winds and harsh morning frost. They work beautifully:

• In borders alongside shrubs and woodland-style planting

• As statement plants in patio containers

• Near entrances or pathways where their blooms can be fully appreciated

They prefer acidic soil, similar to rhododendrons and azaleas, so planting with ericaceous compost is key if your soil is neutral or alkaline.

Caring for Your Camellia

Camellias are surprisingly low maintenance once established, but a few simple tips will keep them thriving:

🌿 Water regularly during dry spells, especially when in bud
🌸 Feed with ericaceous fertiliser in spring and early summer
🍂 Mulch annually to retain moisture and improve soil health
✂️ Light pruning after flowering helps maintain shape

Avoid letting plants dry out while buds are forming, as this can cause buds to drop before opening.

Perfect for Pots

One of the best things about camellias is how well they grow in containers. This makes them ideal for smaller gardens or patios, allowing you to position them where their blooms can be enjoyed up close. Choose a large pot with good drainage and use ericaceous compost for best results.

A Plant That Grows With You

Camellias are long-lived plants that become more beautiful each year. With the right care, they reward patience with increasingly abundant blooms, becoming a lasting feature in your garden for years to come.

Their graceful flowers and evergreen presence make them a true seasonal highlight — a reminder that even in the colder months, the garden is full of life and promise.

At The Rose Press Garden, we believe gardening is about enjoying every season, and camellias are the perfect way to welcome the transition from winter into spring