Camellia williamsii Ruby Wedding (9cm)

The “Ruby Wedding” is an evergreen shrub which has shiny, thick leaves and produces gorgeous, scarlet-red flowers towards the beginning of the year. The blossoms are double flowers with a peony-like form. The deep green colors of the leaves are prevalent throughout the year.

The plant can be used in areas for accents in borders and along house walls. They prefer shadier areas and to tolerate colder temperatures around -1⁰ to -15⁰ C, it is advisable to plant them in sheltered areas.

As well, a sequestered iron plant tonic or fertilizer should be used 2 to 3 times a year in order to facilitate and encourage blossom growth and overall plant vibrancy.

These hardy plants grow into a medium-sized shrub which can be impressive by the sheer volume of blooms that it may hold. Although there is not fragrance to these blossoms, the intricate crinkled design of the petals is impressive.

Make sure to keep a watchful eye for any of the pests like aphids, scale insects and vine weevils or diseases that affect the camellia varieties like leaf and petal blight, and yellow mottle virus.

Overall it is a hardy plant which will continue to provide beauty for years to come. If needed, it is important to carefully prune immediately after the flowering season. Also remove the flowers after they begin to wilt.