Camellias are evergreen shrubs and trees grown in many backyards worldwide. In spring and summer, the glossy green foliage of camellia shrubs provides a supporting role to colorful flowering perennials and annuals. It is in winter, however, when camellias have their moment. There is no better cure to beat the January blues than catching a glimpse of these large flowers on a brisk winter walk, blooming in shades of red, pink, white or yellow when there is little color to be found elsewhere in the garden.
There are many types of camellias, although the most popular is Camellia japonica, with over 2,000 known cultivars. When considering how to grow camellias, these low-maintenance shrubs are hardy down to 15°C/5°F, making them a useful plant to grow in cooler regions. When planted in a partially shaded position in borders with slightly acidic soil, your camellia shrubs will thrive.
