Camellia transnokoensis Transtasman

The 'Transtasman' Camellia is a hybrid camellia with small, evergreen glossy leaves in winter. Throughout spring, it produces delicate single, white flowers with a touch of pink. With a moderate size and an upright habit, it can easily be integrated into a partially shaded flower bed, a medium-sized hedge, or even a pot, provided it is given an acidic, rich, and moist but well-drained substrate.   

The 'Transtasman' Camellia is a bush belonging to the Theaceae family (even if its relation to tea is not immediately obvious at first glance!). This variety is a hybrid derived from the Camellia transnokoensis botanical camellia, a superb wild species native to Taiwan, specifically from Mount Noko, which gives it its name. Like its parent, Camellia Transtasman has small, lanceolate, dark green, glossy evergreen leaves, measuring about 3 to 4 cm (1 to 2in) in length. From the beginning of spring, in March, this camellia produces numerous pink buds that open into small, slightly asymmetrical, white flowers with a touch of pink, measuring 4 cm (2in) in diameter. A bouquet of golden stamens adorns the centre of the flowers, emitting a light fragrance. The flowering continues sporadically for a long period, sometimes until summer. With its rustic charm, it will satisfy even those who do not appreciate the sophistication of large double-flowered hybrid camellias. With a compact and upright habit, it will not exceed 1.50 to 2 m (5 to 7ft) in height, with a width of 1.50 m (5ft). Like most camellias, 'Transtasman' prefers acidic and well-drained soil, or at least neutral soil, but without limestone, which quickly causes its leaves to turn yellow. It has respectable hardiness and can withstand temperatures as low as -12°C (10.4°F) in a sheltered position.

Like many camellias, 'Transtasman' will be more at ease in an oceanic climate : rainy summers and mild winters are much more beneficial for it than strong continental temperature variations. The modest size and upright habit of this variety make it suitable for solitary planting, as well as in a hedge that does not exceed 2 meters (7 feet) in height. It performs well in pots, allowing you to enjoy it even if your soil is not suitable for acid-loving plants or if your climate is too cold. Combine it with Brunnera macrophylla 'Emerald Mist', Actaea 'Brunette', Hosta Minuteman, or even the rare Calanthe discolor for a beautiful display of wild understory plants. A carpet of ferns like Athyrium niponicum 'Pewter Lace' at its base will also create a beautiful contrast with the flowers.