It's that time of year again when most of the flowering plants in our gardens no longer bloom. However, I feel blessed to count on those that make a showing sometime between fall and winter. The Camellia sasanqua is one of the faithful.

 

Although the blooms of this Camellia are often smaller and less showy than Camellia japonica, this species provides one advantage. That chore called dead-heading is eliminated. Spent flowers simply detach and drop to the ground. I think the aftereffect is stunning, as delicate petals fit for a garden or wedding party scatter underfoot.

 

The actual flowers of Camellia sasanqua vary from single to semi-double with fluted or ruffled petals. Even when this plant is not in bloom, it's evergreen glossy foliage is a graceful addition to any garden, especially during the summer months. Known for upright growth, this Camellia works well as a hedge or espaliered against a lattice.

Thriving in USDA Zones 7 through 9, this camellia likes partial sun and a bit of shelter. In Vacaville's hot dry summers, I water regularly. Pruning is necessary since if planted next to a wall not far from a window as mine is. The best time to prune is following the blooming period. Cutting back the branches in summer or fall can decrease the amount of fall to winter blooms.