Camellia lutchuensis

Botanical Name: Camellia lutchuensis
Common Name: fragrant camellia
Family Name: Theaceae
Distribution/Origin: Asia

Description: Strong, sweet fragrance from the numerous white flowers of Camellia lutchuensis from midwinter to early spring. It is sometimes ambiguously, but appropriately, dubbed the fragrant camellia because it is truly the most fragrant of them all. This evergreen shrub is native to the forests and thickets of southernmost China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Japan's Ryukyu Islands where winters are mild. Plant breeders prize this species for the development of fragrant Camellia hybrids, most notably breeders in Japan. The fragrant camellia grows slowly with an upright, open, but spreading habit. Its dark green evergreen leaves have an elliptical shape, leathery texture and glossy sheen. The smooth branch stems are very pliable. From late midwinter to early spring, small to medium flowers occur all over the open, leafy branches . The typically white petals sometimes have a faint pink blush. Seed capsules filled with dark brown, round seeds follow pollination by insects.
Grow the fragrant camellia in partial sun to partial shade, with midday shade being most essential. Evenly moist, slightly acid soil with ample drainage is ideal. As with other camellias, this species is slow-growing, slow to establish and shallow rooted. Provide a thick layer of organic mulch to protect the roots. Regular irrigation and light applications of fertilizer promote good growth and flowering. Prune after flowering ceases, just before new growth starts in spring. This large, open-branched camellia is best incorporated into a mixed woodland border or planted as a specimen. It is amenable to being espaliered or grown as bonsai.

Leaf: Dark-green, Glossy
Stem/Bark: Smooth, Grey, Brown

Size: Height: 2.4 - 4.6m/Spread: 3.0 - 3.7m
Habit: Oval, Rounded

Soil: Well-drained
Moisture: Moderate
Sun: Partial sun, Full sun
Exposure: Partial shade

Landscape uses: Specimen plant, Mixed shrub border, Topiary, Bonsai, Espalier

Notes: Broadleaf evergreen