Camellia Reticulata Captain Rawes is a large, evergreen shrub that belongs to the Camellia family. Its botanical name is Camellia reticulata and it is a cultivar of the species. This beautiful plant is known for its large, showy flowers that bloom in late winter or early spring. The flowers are a deep red color with white stripes and can grow up to 6 inches in diameter. They have a sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Theaceae |
| Genus | Camellia |
Appearance
The Camellia Reticulata Captain Rawes can grow up to 15 feet tall and 10 feet wide. Its leaves are dark green and glossy, and can grow up to 6 inches long. The plant blooms in late winter or early spring, producing large, showy flowers that are deep red with white stripes. The flowers can grow up to 6 inches in diameter and have a sweet fragrance. The plant also produces small, brown seed pods that contain seeds that can be planted to grow new plants.
Care Guide
The Camellia Reticulata Captain Rawes is a relatively low-maintenance plant. It prefers moist, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. The plant should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells. Fertilizer can be applied in the spring and fall to help the plant grow and bloom. The plant should be placed in a location that receives partial shade, as too much direct sunlight can damage the leaves and flowers. It is hardy in zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Camellia Reticulata Captain Rawes is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases. Scale insects can infest the plant, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Spider mites can also infest the plant, causing small, yellow spots on the leaves. Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that can affect the plant, causing white, powdery spots on the leaves. To prevent these issues, it is important to keep the plant well-watered and fertilized, and to remove any infected leaves or branches.
Habitat
The Camellia Reticulata Captain Rawes is native to China and can be found growing in forests and on hillsides. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. The plant is cultivated for its ornamental value and is often grown in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Camellia Reticulata Captain Rawes?
A: The plant should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells. Make sure the soil is moist, but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the best fertilizer to use for my Camellia Reticulata Captain Rawes?
A: A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is best for this plant. Fertilizer can be applied in the spring and fall.
Q: How do I prune my Camellia Reticulata Captain Rawes?
A: Pruning should be done in the spring after the plant has finished blooming. Remove any dead or damaged branches, and shape the plant as desired.
Q: Can I grow Camellia Reticulata Captain Rawes in a container?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in a container as long as it is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.
Related Plants
- Camellia japonica
- Camellia sasanqua
- Camellia sinensis
- Camellia oleifera
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of woody landscape plants: their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation, and uses. Stipes Publishing.
- Flower, R. (2008). Camellias: A practical gardening guide. Timber Press.
- Wang, Y., Xu, P., & Zhang, L. (2020). The complete chloroplast genome of Camellia reticulata var. captain rawes (Theaceae). Mitochondrial DNA Part B, 5(2), 1708-1709.
