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I hope everyone enjoyed the snow and stayed safe. Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Angela Mason Foster wrote this article while my winter writing break continues.

When winter grays over Eastern North Carolina, camellias step into the spotlight, turning gardens into vibrant galleries of color. These evergreen beauties not only brighten landscapes but also bring a sense of timeless elegance to cold-weather gardens. Whether you’re enchanted by their show-stopping blooms or intrigued by their rich history, camellias are a gardener’s delight—especially in January and February.

The tale of two camellias
Eastern North Carolina is home to two main species of camellias: Camellia japonica and Camellia sasanqua, each with its own personality and charm.

Camellia japonica: The diva of the garden, japonicas boast large, luxurious flowers in shades of red, pink, white, and variegated combinations. Their glossy green foliage serves as the perfect backdrop for these opulent blooms. Typically blooming from late fall through early spring, japonicas thrive in sheltered spots with dappled sunlight. Think of them as the “main event”—perfect for making a dramatic statement in your garden.

Camellia sasanqua: The understated artist, sasanquas bloom earlier, from fall to early winter, often wrapping up their display by January. Their flowers are smaller and more delicate, but they make up for it with sheer volume and a graceful, cascading growth habit. Sasanquas are versatile and tough, thriving in sunnier spots and adding texture to hedges, groundcovers, or espaliered designs. By combining these two species, you can enjoy months of stunning color from autumn through winter.

Why camellias love Eastern NC
Camellias thrive in our region’s acidic, well-drained soils and mild winters. However, they’re not fans of extremes. Protect them from harsh wind and direct afternoon sun by planting them in sheltered spots, such as under tall pines or against a building. Their preference for partial shade makes them ideal companions for azaleas, ferns, and other shade-loving plants.

Winter’s stars: blooming in January and February
When most gardens are dormant, camellias steal the show. January and February are prime time for japonicas, whose large, velvety blooms open one by one, creating a continuous display of beauty. Their nectar-rich flowers also provide an essential food source for bees on mild winter days, making them a friend to pollinators as well as gardeners.

A few tips for happy camellias
Mulch matters: A two- to three-inch layer of mulch regulates soil temperature and locks in moisture.

Prune with care: Wait until after blooming to prune japonicas. Lightly tidy up sasanquas in early spring.

Feed smartly: Use a slow-release, acid-loving plant fertilizer in late winter or early spring.

Watch for pests: Dormant oil sprays can help keep scale insects at bay during winter.

Camellias in action: events at the Elizabethan Gardens
This February, head to the Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo to immerse yourself in the world of camellias. Their 45-minute camellia tours offer inside knowledge about these plants, from their cultural uses to a chance to taste tea made from the Gardens’ own camellia leaves. After the tour, stop by the nursery to purchase seedlings and plants to start your own camellia collection.Tours run every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tickets are $5 for members and $5 plus admission for non-members. These tours are a wonderful opportunity to deepen your appreciation for camellias and gain inspiration for your garden.

Must-have varieties for your garden
Looking to add camellias to your landscape? Here are a few standout varieties:
‘Debutante’: A japonica with soft pink, peony-like blooms.
‘Yuletide’: A sasanqua favorite with fiery red blooms and golden centers.
‘Governor Mouton’: A striking red-and-white variegated japonica.
‘Professor Sargent’: Classic bright red semi-double japonica flowers.

Suggested Reading for Camellia Enthusiasts
“Camellias: The Gardener’s Encyclopedia” by Jennifer Trehane – A definitive guide for history and cultivation.
“Camellias: An Illustrated Guide to Varieties, Cultivation and Care” by Jo Ann Gardner – Practical and visually stunning.

Conclusion
Whether you’re drawn to the bold elegance of japonicas or the graceful charm of sasanquas, camellias offer something special for every gardener. As they brighten winter gardens with their timeless beauty, camellias remind us that even the coldest seasons can be full of life and inspiration. Take a stroll through your local garden or attend a camellia tour this February—and let these winter gems steal your heart.

For additional help with gardening questions, contact Gene Fox, Consumer Horticulture Agent with the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service, at gene_fox@ncsu.edu or call (252) 946-0111. Master Gardeners are also available for home horticulture questions every Monday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on the Greenline. Be sure to visit the Beaufort County Master Gardeners Facebook page for our “Plant of the Week” feature and “Finding Info Friday” posts.