Camellia japonica ‘April Rose’

Fragrant and cold tolerant, Camellia ‘April Rose’ is an eye-catching Japanese camellia with masses of deep rose-red, rose form double flowers, 3-4 in. wide (7-10 cm) in late season (March-May in the Northern Hemisphere; August-October in the Southern Hemisphere). They contrast beautifully with the evergreen foliage of elliptic, serrated, glossy dark green leaves (to 3” long). Featuring a relatively slow growth and well-shaped form, this charming Camellia hybrid belongs to the April Series introduced by Dr. Clifford Parks. It is cold tolerant and can be successfully grown in regions as cold as USDA Zone 6b.

• This shrub has an upright, compact form and grows vigorously up to 5-8 ft. tall (150-240 cm) and 3-5 ft. across (90-150 cm)
• A part shade lover, this plant is best grown in consistently moist, acidic, organically rich, well-drained soils. Provide a site sheltered from cold, dry winds, as buds and flowers may be damaged by cold winds. Protect from the early morning sun and the direct hot summer afternoon sun.
• Camellias are susceptible to some viruses and fungal diseases, including leaf spots, anthracnose, black mold, petal blight, canker, and root rot. Watch also for aphids, planthoppers, and spider mites.
• Mass in mixed shrub borders for dramatic winter blooms. Great flowering shrub for woodland gardens or as a screen and hedge. Perfect as a specimen plant and may be effectively grown in tubs or large containers.
• Apply a root mulch (leaves or shredded bark)
• Prune after flowering. Prune to thin branching and control size and shape.