The introduction of camellias to the Southern regions in the early 19th century marked the beginning of a beautiful journey for these enchanting flowers. Initially, the selection of camellia varieties was limited, but it wasn't until the early 20th century that they truly flourished in the Southern landscape, thriving in the ideal climate and soil conditions of the United States. With the introduction of new varieties from Europe and the emergence of seedlings originating in America in the 1930s and 1940s, the camellia craze began to intensify.
It spread across the USA with a fever pitch and everyone wanted them. But as beloved as they were, not everyone took the time to document what plants they had and soon they became unknown to the next generations. Sure, old-time growers who were putting them into the hands of the gardening public knew what they were, but all too soon they were gone and took the secrets with them. To further complicate the issue, many seedlings have come into being that may not have ever been named. This is true in gardens where many camellias can produce seeds and grow into new plants without ever touching human hands. We have some of those in our own garden never had a name, never will.
Is it possible to unravel these mysteries and identify these camellia varieties after years of being unknown? While there is a likelihood of identifying some, the sheer number of camellia varieties over the years means that despite dedicated efforts, some may forever remain unidentified.
For those eager to solve the puzzle of old camellias in their gardens, stepping into the role of an investigator can bring excitement and challenge. By implementing an organized plan, starting with temporary labeling and diligently recording details such as bloom characteristics, growth habits, and leaf attributes, one can begin the quest for identification.
Many tools can help you solve some of the mystery of Camellia names. Camellia books, camellia societies, and even Facebook groups dedicated to Camellias can be of help, but remember, do your homework. Don't just settle on an image look alike. There are many factors to consider when identifying and you should investigate ALL of the possibilities.
Camellias are all different, even though you may have a similar flower, there may be some other characteristics that make it different. Here is a list of some of the important characteristics to consider:
Bloom Size - average width on blooms
Bloom Form - single, semidouble, rose form double, anemone, and others...
Bloom colors and patterns, are they all the same, do they occur randomly on the plant? Note any variegation characteristics - stripes, streaks, flecks, shading.
Bloom stamens - are they uniform, do they spread out or are they tight in the center, are they yellow, brown, etc?
Bloom Petals - shape, size, and form. Look for unique characteristics within each bloom. does it have small petals in the center? Do the petals curve inward or outward or are they flat?
Bud shape and size - do the buds cluster, are they single? Are they pointed or round?
Bloom Season - when do most of the flowers start to open?
Growth Habit - is the bush open and spreading or is more compact? Is it a fast grower or a slow grower?
Leaves - color, size, and shape of the leaves, rounded wide, narrow, or pointed. Small or large, any signs of variegation, serration, twisting, and curling?
Age of the Plant, where it came from if you know, or how long it has been there.
How To Start:
- Get a Notebook and make notes about each cultivar. Note all the info about the the plant from tips above.
- Put some kind of label on the plant that you can reference.
- Take photos - Flowers (front and side), the entire plant, leaf structure, and buds.
- Find old books, old gardens. There is a wealth of information available. Put it out there....a great place is Facebook groups related to Camellias. Try Camellia Care and Identification. It's one of the best
Word of advice.... just because it's a pink formal double, doesn't mean it's Pink Perfection!
And work to preserve your plants as you plant new or identify old. LABEL LABEL LABEL and keep records for future generations so they won't have to be do what you're doing now!
As we dive deeper into the world of old camellias, each piece of information becomes a crucial clue in unraveling the mystery. While some identifications may remain elusive, the journey of investigating and preserving the history and knowledge of camellias enriches the experience and ensures that future generations of camellia enthusiasts can continue the quest for identification.