Contents
Description
Camellia Doctor Clifford Parks is a beautiful flowering shrub that belongs to the Camellia family. It is a hybrid cultivar that was developed in the United States by Dr. Clifford Parks. This plant is known for its large, semi-double to peony-like flowers that bloom in mid to late season. The flowers are a vibrant pink color with yellow stamens and are approximately 10-12 cm in diameter. This plant is a popular choice for gardens and landscapes due to its stunning flowers and evergreen foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Theaceae |
| Genus | Camellia |
Appearance
Camellia Doctor Clifford Parks is a medium-sized evergreen shrub that can grow up to 2-3 meters in height. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and have a leathery texture. The flowers are large and showy, with a vibrant pink color and yellow stamens. The blooms can last for several weeks and are followed by small, round seed pods. This plant is a great addition to any garden or landscape due to its stunning flowers and year-round foliage.
Care Guide
Camellia Doctor Clifford Parks requires regular maintenance to ensure healthy growth and beautiful blooms. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Camellias prefer moist but well-draining soil. Water regularly, especially during the growing season.
- Fertilization: Feed Camellias with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and again in the fall.
- Soil: Camellias prefer acidic soil with a pH between 5.0-6.5. Amend soil with organic matter before planting.
- Sunlight: Camellias prefer partial shade to full shade. Avoid planting in direct sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: Camellia Doctor Clifford Parks is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Camellia Doctor Clifford Parks is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including:
- Camellia Scale: Small, white or gray insects that attach to the undersides of leaves and stems.
- Tea Scale: Small, yellow or brown insects that attach to the undersides of leaves.
- Camellia Petal Blight: A fungal disease that causes brown spots on the flowers and can cause them to drop prematurely.
- Root Rot: A fungal disease that causes the roots to rot and can lead to plant death.
To prevent these issues, keep the plant healthy and well-maintained. Remove any infected leaves or flowers immediately and dispose of them properly. Use an insecticide or fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
Camellia Doctor Clifford Parks is native to the United States and is commonly found in gardens and landscapes. This plant prefers acidic soil and partial to full shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 7-9 and can tolerate cold temperatures down to -12°C.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Camellia Doctor Clifford Parks grow in full sun?
A: No, Camellia Doctor Clifford Parks prefers partial to full shade and should not be planted in direct sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize Camellia Doctor Clifford Parks?
A: Feed Camellia Doctor Clifford Parks with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and again in the fall.
Q: How do I prevent Camellia Petal Blight?
A: To prevent Camellia Petal Blight, remove any infected leaves or flowers immediately and dispose of them properly. Use a fungicide if necessary.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Camellia Doctor Clifford Parks?
A: Camellia Doctor Clifford Parks is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Related Plants
- Camellia japonica
- Camellia sasanqua
- Camellia sinensis
- Camellia reticulata
References
- “Camellia Doctor Clifford Parks.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a163.
- “Camellia ‘Doctor Clifford Parks’.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/14382/i-Camellia-i-Doctor-Clifford-Parks/Details.
- “Camellia ‘Doctor Clifford Parks’.” The Spruce, 1 Apr. 2021, www.thespruce.com/camellia-doctor-clifford-parks-3269211.
