Camellia Homepage - The International Camellia Society

Orangey-red open bloom with bright yellow stamens -- Camellia azalea is a handsome flower. But year-round blooming is the reason hybridizers are becoming interested in the plant. This photo was taken by Gene Phillips in Savannah, Georgia, in the southeastern U.S., on 23 July.

Gene sent this note along with the photo:

I have attached an image that I took within the hour of my Camellia azalea. This is one of the most fascinating camellias that I have ever encountered. I began growing this species a number of years ago, and I am still learning its many secrets. I have bloomed this species for the last three year years here in Savannah, Georgia, in the [southeastern] USA. Savannah is not a hospitable place to be during July and August. We have been experiencing temperatures in the upper 90"s Fahrenheit [the high 30s C], but we have had five different blooms on Camellia azalea in the month of July so far, and the plant has many more blooms to open. This species is a stunning plant even if it never bloomed, but when you add the summer blooming characteristic, it is awesome. I have successfully grafted this species, and I am studying the best ways to grow it from rooted cuttings. Being able to grow this plant on its own roots is crucial to having it become widespread in cultivation. The breeding potential is enormous.
Gene Phillips hep1198 "at" gmail.com

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