Species camellia
Pink flower with pink-white center dark-green leaves, lime midrib and veins

camellia

Camellia japonica 'April Tryst'

Camellia japonica 'April Tryst' is truly an amazing plant. It is a beautiful evergreen shrub with dark green glossy leaves and a profusion of pure white, semi-double fragrant blooms. Blooming from winter into spring, this versatile plant adds beauty to any garden. It thrives in partial shade, and is known for its durability and resistance to extreme temperatures and pests. This strong and low-maintenance plant is the perfect choice for any gardener looking to add long-lasting color and fragrance to their garden.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Cutting,Division,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

6 - 9

Flowers:

Red Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Camellia japonica 'April Tryst' requires regular watering during its growing season in order to promote healthy growth. When watering, the goal is to keep the soil moist, but not soggy. When the top 1-2 inches of soil becomes dry, go ahead and water the plant. During the warmer months water the plant 2 to 3 times a week, and during the cooler months aim for once a week. In addition to regular watering, make sure to check the soil before you water and if it is still moist wait a bit longer to give it more time to absorb the moisture. Lastly, make sure to check for adequate drainage in your soil so the roots do not become waterlogged.

sunlight

Camellia (Camellia japonica 'April Tryst') requires moderate to bright sunlight during the morning, which should make up between 3 and 4 hours of direct sun exposure, and shade during the heat of the day. It can be grown in full sun in cool climate areas, but will require more shade in warmer climates. During the winter months, camellia should receive as much morning sunshine as possible. When young, a camellia should be gradually introduced to sun to avoid sunburn, especially when planted in a warmer climate. During summer months, it is beneficial for the plant to receive indirect sunshine for the remainder of the day.

pruning

This cultivar of Camellia japonica is a low-maintenance shrub, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced gardeners. Pruning this variety of Camellia is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Prune lightly, removing any dead or damaged branches, as well as any that are growing in a bizarre fashion. You can also remove any suckers – growth that comes from the base of the bush, as well as trim overly long branches. Avoid cutting into the older, woody parts of the bush if possible, as this may affect the flowering potential of the plant.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Camellia japonica 'April Tryst' typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map

FAQ

Are there different varieties of Camellia plants?

Yes, there are different varieties of Camellia plants. Camellias are a diverse species, and while they are all part of the Camellia genus, there are numerous varieties that have unique colors, shapes, and sizes. Some varieties include Camellia japonica, Camellia sasanqua, Camellia Reticulata, and Camellia sinensis, among many others. Each variety is suited to different growing conditions and climates, and each offers unique blooms and foliage.

Can Camellia plants grow in cold weather?

Camellia plants prefer mild climates and thrive best in zones 6, 7, and 8. They can tolerate colder temperatures so long as they are provided with ample protection in the form of heavy mulch, windscreening, and snug tree wraps. Planting the Camellia in sheltered locations and avoiding frost pockets will also help protect it during cold weather. It may also be beneficial to water the plants more regularly during cold snaps to keep the soil slightly moist, as this can protect their roots from freezing.

Could Camellia plants survive in a humid environment?

Yes, Camellia plants can survive in a humid environment. These plants are known for their ability to thrive in a variety of climates, including those with high humidity levels. They also have thick, waxy leaves to protect them from the moisture. In addition, Camellias are known for their resilience and are able to persevere through heat, cold, and diverse weather conditions, making them an ideal choice for a humid environment.

Do Camellia plants attract bees?

Yes, camellia plants do attract bees. They produce large, showy flowers and are among some of the first blooming flowers of the spring and summer season, filling the air with their sweet scent. This attracts numerous varieties of bees including bumblebees, honeybees, and sometimes even rare solitary bees. Camellia plants also provide a great source of nectar for bees which is why they are so often seen hovering around them.

Can Camellia plants be propagated by cuttings?

Yes, Camellia plants can be propagated by cuttings. The process is relatively easy and is a viable option to grow a new Camellia plant from an existing one. The cutting should be taken from a branch that has firm, healthy leaves and no blemishes. The stems should be cut into pieces 2-6 inches long and the bottom of each cutting should be submerged into a rooting hormone. The cuttings should then be planted in damp soil and given regular waterings. With proper care and attention, the cuttings should take root and continue to grow into a healthy Camellia plant.

Could Camellia plants grow in a container?

Yes, Camellia plants can grow in a container. Camellia plants prefer a slightly acidic, well-draining potting soil. To get the best results, a container with good drainage is important. Too much moisture in the soil and the plant will struggle due to the lack of oxygen in the soil. Plant the Camellia in a container with a diameter of 8-12 inches, with drainage holes in the bottom. Water your Camellia when the topsoil is slightly dry to the touch. When the soil is saturated, reduce the amount of water you give the plant. Finally, make sure the Camellia has access to plenty of indirect sunlight and fertilize it once each season for best growth.

Can Camellia plants be used for landscaping?

Yes, Camellia plants can be used for landscaping as they are naturally attractive shrubs with glossy dark green foliage and gorgeous showy flowers. They are versatile and make excellent borders, hedges and can be planted in containers or grouped as showpieces. They thrive in partial to full shaded locations, are drought tolerant and reliably low maintenance. Camellia plants come in various sizes, shapes and flower colors - ranging from bright white to deep red, and with their well-behaved growth habit and striking blooms, they make a great addition to any landscape.

Is the Camellia plant an evergreen or deciduous plant?

The Camellia plant is an evergreen plant. It commonly grows in temperate climates, including Southern Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, China, and Taiwan. It has also been introduced to many other locations across the world. It is noted for its large and showy flower blossoms that are typically white or slightly pink in color. As an evergreen, Camellia plants keep almost all their foliage year round and typically require minimal maintenance.