Camellia ‘Winter’s Interlude’

Camellia ‘Winter’s Interlude’ is an eye-catching, early-season camellia with magnificent clear pink flowers blooming massively over 4 to 6 weeks in November or December (depending on your area). Each semi-double flower (peony form), 3 in. across (7 cm), consists of 12 pink petals surrounding 76 intermingled pink and creamy-white petaloids (small petals). The foliage of leathery, glossy, dark green leaves adds beauty to the landscape. Tough and reliable, this evergreen camellia can be successfully grown in regions as cold as USDA Zone 6b.

• This shrub has an upright, spreading habit and grows moderately up to 5-8 ft. tall (150-240 cm) and 4-5 ft. across (120-150 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.