Camellia × williamsii 'Debbie'
camellia
- Position: partial shade (but not east-facing)
- Soil: moist but well-drained, humus-rich, acid soil (or ericaceous compost for container-grown specimens)
- Rate of growth: fast-growing
- Flowering period: April to May
- Hardiness: fully hardy
A very free-flowering camellia that produces large, peony-form, rose-pink blooms for several weeks from April. This vigorous, evergreen shrub is particularly resistant to cold weather and is perfect for training against a north-facing wall or fence. The faded blooms drop cleanly when they are spent. This variety is highly recommended by the Royal Horticultural Society. - Garden care: To prevent damage to the emerging buds and flowers protect from cold, dry winds and early morning sun. Water established plants in dry weather to prevent bud drop. Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser in mid-spring and again in June. Top-dress annually with shredded bark or well-rotted leaf mould. After flowering lightly trim or prune any branches that spoil the appearance of the plant.