Plant Profile: Kramer's Supreme Camellia
Camellia japonica 'Kramer's Supreme'



Species Native Range: China and Japan
Hardiness: USDA Zones 7-10
Mature Size: 6-8 feet tall and wide
Exposure: Light to partial shade with protection from afternoon sun
Soil: Loose with organic matter, moist and well-drained
Ease of Culture: Easy

In terms of the Camellia blooming season, Christmas somewhat marks the beginning of the japonicas and the end of the sasanquas, although there is a bit of overlap. Kramer's Supreme Camellia is considered a mid-season japonica and will begin blooming in the next few weeks. The large flower buds are easily visible and will produce large (4-5 inch) red full peony form flowers. Also of note is that the flowers are fragrant. The rest of the year KS is covered with deep green, glossy, slightly-toothed evergreen leaves that are about 2 inches long.

Grow KS Camellia in light to partial shade. Morning sun is fine but protection from the hot afternoon sun is important as is protection from strong winds in winter. The soil should be loose, amended with organic matter and moist but well-drained.

Camellias make wonderful screens or borders for part shade locations and can also be used as a backdrop for a garden room. Since they grow somewhat slowly they can also be grown in containers or as an espalier against a wall or foundation. Container-grown Camellias need protection if the temperatures drop below +25 degrees.

Camellias are THE symbol for gardening in the South. Where else can you have robust-flowering shrubs that bloom in the fall and winter. Depending upon the variety, Camellias begin blooming in September/October and continue with the last varieties blooming into early April. I can't think of a more beautiful sight than a bounty of big bright flowers in a winter garden, especially if we get snow:


'Glen 40' Camellia japonica blanketed in February

For more information on Camellias, visit the web site of the American Camellia Society or check out the The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Camellias by Sterling Macoboy.




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