Camellia Japonica Lady De Saumarez

Description

Camellia Japonica Lady De Saumarez is a stunning evergreen flowering shrub that belongs to the Theaceae family. It is native to Japan and grows up to 12 feet tall and 8 feet wide. The plant is known for its large, rose-form double flowers that bloom in mid to late winter. The flowers are a pale pink color, with a darker pink edging and yellow stamens in the center. Its glossy, dark green leaves add to the plant’s overall beauty.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Camellia Japonica Lady De Saumarez has a dense, upright growth habit with a rounded shape. The plant’s leaves are glossy, dark green, and oval-shaped, with a pointed tip. The flowers are large, reaching up to 4 inches in diameter, and have a ruffled appearance. They bloom in mid to late winter and are a pale pink color with a darker pink edging. The yellow stamens in the center of the flower add a pop of color to the overall appearance of the plant.

Care Guide

The Camellia Japonica Lady De Saumarez requires regular care to thrive. Here are some tips:

• Water: The plant needs regular watering, especially during the growing season. Make sure the soil is moist, but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: The Camellia Japonica Lady De Saumarez prefers well-draining, acidic soil. If your soil is not acidic, add peat moss or sulfur to lower the pH level.
• Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade. Too much direct sunlight can damage the leaves and flowers.
• Hardiness Zones: The plant grows well in zones 7-9.

Common Pests and Diseases

The Camellia Japonica Lady De Saumarez is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases:

• Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to curl and turn yellow. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
• Camellia Petal Blight: This fungal disease can cause the flowers to turn brown and mushy. Remove any infected flowers and clean up fallen debris around the plant to prevent the spread of the disease.
• Scale Insects: These insects can attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant, causing the leaves to yellow and drop. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.

Habitat

The Camellia Japonica Lady De Saumarez is native to Japan and thrives in a subtropical climate. It prefers well-draining soil and partial to full shade. The plant is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water my Camellia Japonica Lady De Saumarez?
A: Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. Make sure the soil is moist, but not waterlogged.

Q: Can I grow the Camellia Japonica Lady De Saumarez in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container. Make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and use well-draining soil.

Q: When is the best time to prune my Camellia Japonica Lady De Saumarez?
A: Prune the plant after it has finished blooming in late winter or early spring. Remove any dead or damaged branches and shape the plant as desired.

Q: Can I grow the Camellia Japonica Lady De Saumarez in a cold climate?
A: The plant grows well in zones 7-9, which have mild winters. If you live in a colder climate, you may need to protect the plant from freezing temperatures.

Related Plants

• Camellia Japonica
• Camellia Sasanqua
• Camellia Sinensis

References

• “Camellia Japonica Lady De Saumarez.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287645&isprofile=0&basic=camellia%20japonica%20lady%20de%20saumarez.
• “Camellia Japonica ‘Lady de Saumarez’.” Plant Lust. https://plantlust.com/plants/20632/camellia-japonica-lady-de-saumarez/.
• “Camellia Japonica ‘Lady de Saumarez’.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/53730/camellia-japonica-lady-de-saumarez/details.