Camellia Williamsii Freedom Bell

Description

The Camellia Williamsii Freedom Bell is a hybrid camellia plant that belongs to the Theaceae family. It was first introduced in 1950 and is a cross between the Camellia saluenensis and Camellia japonica. This evergreen shrub is popular for its showy, bright red flowers that bloom in winter and early spring, making it an excellent ornamental plant for gardens, landscapes, and patios. The plant can grow up to 10-15 feet tall and 6-10 feet wide, making it a great choice for a specimen or hedge plant.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukarya
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Ericales
Family	Theaceae
Genus	Camellia

Appearance

The Camellia Williamsii Freedom Bell has dark green, glossy leaves that are 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The flowers are semi-double to peony form, with an average diameter of 4-5 inches. They feature a bright red color with golden yellow stamens, which makes them stand out against the green foliage. The flowers bloom abundantly from late winter to early spring. The plant produces a smooth, gray-colored bark that peels off in strips as it ages.

Care Guide

The Camellia Williamsii Freedom Bell is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it requires specific care to thrive. Here are some tips:

• Water: The plant needs regular watering during the growing season. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in winter to prevent root rot.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Stop fertilizing in fall to allow the plant to go dormant.
• Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid planting in heavy clay soil.
• Sunlight: The plant thrives in partially shaded areas with filtered sunlight. Avoid planting in full sun, as it can scorch the leaves and flowers.
• Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Camellia Williamsii Freedom Bell is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:

• Tea Scale: This insect feeds on the plant’s leaves and causes yellowing and leaf drop. Treat with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
• Camellia Petal Blight: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the flowers and makes them fall prematurely. Remove infected flowers and treat with fungicide.
• Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poorly drained soil. Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering.

Habitat

The Camellia Williamsii Freedom Bell is native to Asia and is commonly found in China, Japan, and Korea. It thrives in temperate climates and prefers areas with mild winters and cool summers. The plant grows well in acidic, well-drained soils and can tolerate partial shade.

Question and Answer

Q: Can the Camellia Williamsii Freedom Bell tolerate full sun?

A: No, the plant prefers partial shade with filtered sunlight and can get sunburned in full sun.

Q: When should I fertilize my Camellia Williamsii Freedom Bell?

A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Stop fertilizing in fall to allow the plant to go dormant.

Q: What is the ideal soil pH for the Camellia Williamsii Freedom Bell?

A: The plant prefers well-drained, acidic soil with a pH range of 5.0-6.0.

Q: How often should I water my Camellia Williamsii Freedom Bell?

A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in winter to prevent root rot.

Related Plants

• Camellia japonica
• Camellia sasanqua
• Camellia sinensis

References

• “Camellia Williamsii Freedom Bell.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e110.
• “Camellia Williamsii Freedom Bell.” North Carolina State University Extension, content.ces.ncsu.edu/camellia-williamsii-freedom-bell.
• “Camellia Williamsii Freedom Bell.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/105130/i-Camellia-williamsii-i-Free-dom-Bell/Details.