Japanese camellia Camellia japonica 'Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II'
ABOUT
The Camellia japonica 'Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II' is a standout variety, renowned for its exquisite flowers. The plant showcases large, showy blossoms that exude elegance and grace. Each flower is composed of numerous petals that are intricately arranged in a formal, double pattern, giving them a full, luxurious appearance. The petals themselves have a soft, velvety texture and are typically a deep, rich pink hue, sometimes edged with a lighter pink or a hint of cream, adding to the visual depth and interest of the blossoms. The glossy, deep green leaves provide a striking contrast to the vibrant flowers, creating a lush, verdant backdrop that emphasizes the beauty of the blooms. The foliage has a leathery feel to it, with leaves that are oval-shaped and come to a somewhat pointed tip, and the edges may be slightly serrated. Together, the elegant flowers and glossy foliage make the Camellia japonica 'Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II' a truly regal presence in any garden setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Theaceae
Synonyms
Japanese Camellia, Rose of Winter, Tsubaki
Common names
Camellia japonica 'Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II'.
ToxicityTo humans
Camellia japonica, commonly referred to as Japanese camellia, is not known to be toxic to humans. Therefore, ingestion of this plant typically does not lead to poisoning or produce harmful symptoms.
To pets
Japanese camellia is generally considered to be non-toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. As such, ingestion of the plant parts, including leaves and flowers, is unlikely to cause significant symptoms of poisoning or serious consequences in pets. However, individual animals may have varying sensitivities, and ingesting plant material can sometimes lead to mild gastrointestinal upset out of general irritation rather than toxicity.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Dark green
Flower color
Pink
Height
6-12 feet (1.8-3.7 meters)
Spread
6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
7-9
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental value: Camellia japonica has showy, attractive flowers that enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Long blooming season: It blooms from late winter through spring, providing color during a time when few other plants are in flower.
- Versatility: This plant can be used in various garden settings, including as a specimen plant, in shrub borders, or as part of a foundation planting.
- Evergreen foliage: Camellia japonica retains its glossy, dark green leaves throughout the year, offering continuous visual interest.
- Shade tolerance: It can grow in partial shade, making it suitable for planting under tree canopies or in other less sunny locations.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant, requiring less water compared to other ornamental plants.
- Low maintenance: Requires minimal pruning and care once it is established, making it a good choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Resilience to pests: Generally resistant to pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Attracts pollinators: Flowers provide nectar for bees and other pollinating insects, promoting biodiversity.
- Cultural significance: Camellias have historical and cultural meaning in many societies and are often associated with elegance and beauty.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Symbolic Gifts: Camellia flowers, including the 'Camellia japonica', are used as symbols of love, affection, and admiration, making them popular romantic gifts.
- Culinary Decoration: The petals of 'Camellia japonica' can be used to decorate dishes, adding a vibrant touch to culinary presentations without altering the flavor.
- Textile Dyes: The petals of the Camellia japonica can sometimes be used to create natural dyes for fabrics, yielding subtle hues.
- Artistic Inspiration: The striking beauty of the Camellia japonica' flowers often serves as inspiration for artists, featuring in paintings and textile designs.
- Traditional Crafts: In some cultures, the leaves and flowers of the Camellia are incorporated into traditional crafts, such as pressed flower art.
- Garden Design: Camellia japonica shrubs are frequently used in landscape design for their evergreen foliage and winter blooming capabilities.
- Religious Symbolism: Certain cultures may use Camellia flowers in religious ceremonies or as offerings due to their symbolic meanings.
- Photography: The Camellia japonica's vivid flowers are a favored subject for photographers, especially in botanical and nature-themed photography.
- Ceremonial Celebrations: In some regions, Camellia flowers are used in ceremonial events, including weddings and festivals, for decoration.
- Educational Tool: Botany and horticulture students study Camellia japonica species to learn about plant growth, propagation, and care.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Camellia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Camellia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love and Admiration: Camellia often symbolizes deep desire, passion, and romantic love. The deep red color typically associated with some varieties is closely linked to the heart and strong feelings of affection.
- Perfection and Excellence: The perfection of its petals and the plant's overall beauty symbolize the strive for excellence and faultless beauty, making it an emblem for those who are admired for their accomplishments.
- Longevity and Steadfastness: As an evergreen with a long blooming season, camellias represent the endurance of life and the constant presence of beauty, reflecting the steadfast character of someone who is always present and reliable.
- Respect and Adulation: Gifting camellias can be a sign of respect or adoration towards someone. It communicates the message of someone being lauded and celebrated much like royalty, fitting for a plant named after Queen Elizabeth II.
- Devotion and Faithfulness: In many cultures, camellias are seen as a symbol of loyalty and devotion, indicating a bond that is not easily shaken, reflecting the deep commitment one has for another.
WaterJapanese camellias, including 'Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II', should be watered to maintain moist but not soggy soil, generally requiring watering once a week. However, frequency should be adjusted based on climate conditions and soil drainage; during hot, dry spells more frequent watering may be needed, possibly twice a week. Use about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per session for a medium-sized shrub, ensuring even distribution around the root zone but avoiding waterlogging. During winter, reduce watering to prevent root rot, especially if the plant is in a cooler climate or not actively growing. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before proceeding with watering.
LightCamellias thrive in partial shade with some morning sun and afternoon protection, which is especially important for 'Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II'. They are best placed in a spot with dappled sunlight that shields them from the harsh midday sun. An eastern or filtered light exposure is ideal to prevent leaf scorch and provide the gentle light that camellias favor.
TemperatureJapanese camellias like 'Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II' prefer temperatures between 68 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the growing season. They can withstand winter temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from frost. The ideal temperature range is beneficial not just for growth but also for bloom formation; prolonged exposure to temperatures over 90 degrees Fahrenheit can be detrimental.
PruningCamellias, like 'Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II', should be pruned to maintain shape and remove dead or weak growth. The best time for pruning is just after blooming ends in the spring. They do not require heavy pruning; just thin out crowded branches and selectively prune to improve airflow and light penetration. Do this annually or as needed to keep the plant healthy and well-formed.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for a Camellia (Japanese Camellia), including 'Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II', is one that is well-draining, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic. A blend of 2 parts peat moss to 1 part perlite and 1 part organic compost would be ideal. The soil pH should be between 5.5 and 6.5 for optimal growth conditions.
RepottingJapanese Camellias should be repotted every 2-3 years or when they become root-bound. Repot in the spring before the growth period begins, choosing a container only slightly larger than the previous one.
Humidity & MistingJapanese Camellias thrive best in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 40% to 60%. They appreciate a humid environment but don't require the air to be as moist as tropical plants do.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light; keep soil lightly moist.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, shelter from strong winds, mulch root zone.
Hardiness zone
7-9 USDA
Life cycleCamellia japonica 'Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II', commonly known as Japanese camellia, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in moist soil conditions with partial shade. The seedling stage involves the development of roots and the first true leaves, which then progress into a juvenile plant phase with increased leaf production and stem growth. Once mature, the plant enters a vegetative stage where it focuses on developing a sturdy structure and dense foliage. This is followed by the flowering stage, typically occurring in late winter to early spring, where buds form and blossom into large, showy flowers. After pollination, the plant produces fruit (seed pods) that mature by late summer or fall, completing the cycle as seeds disperse for germination. Throughout its life, the Japanese camellia requires consistent care, including regular watering, pruning, and protection from extreme temperatures to thrive and repeat this cycle annually.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the Camellia japonica 'Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II', commonly known as the Japanese camellia, is via semi-hardwood cuttings. This is usually done in late summer. The process involves selecting a healthy branch that's started to turn from green to brown. A cutting of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) is made, and the lower leaves are removed. The cut end is then dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development and planted in a mixture of peat and perlite. The cutting should be kept under high humidity and indirect light, and it typically takes a few months for the cutting to root successfully.
