Camellia japonica Stacy Susan

Camellia japonica 'Stacy Susan' is a distinctive variety in which the vegetation and flowers are smaller in size. This lovely Japanese camellia bears small but perfectly formed double flowers in spring, each with a different pattern of pink to almost red stripes on a white background. They are perfectly complemented by dark green, toothed leaves. It is a delightful small bush, ideal for decorating a partially shaded terrace or as a standalone plant in the garden, in acidic and moist soil. 

The 'Stacy Susan' Camellia, selected in 1978 in the U.S.A, belongs to the family of Theaceae. This variety is sometimes given the synonym 'Sushan'. It is a bushy, slightly upright shrub that will reach about 1 m (3 ft) in height and 70 cm (28 in) in spread after 10 years. Starting earlier or later depending on the climate, from March to May it produces small double flowers which are very unusual. Each flower, composed of overlapping petals, is more or less streaked or veined with soft pink to dark pink, or carmine pink to almost red, on a white background. Beautiful golden yellow stamens appear in the fully opened flower. The foliage, evergreen, is made up of elliptical, tough leaves with finely toothed edges, dark green and glossy on the upper side. While this shrub is hardy down to -17°C in the ground, its flower buds can be destroyed by snow, icy winds, and temperatures below -5°C (23 °F).

Camellia japonica 'Stacy Susan' prefers rather mild and humid climates and thrives in coastal regions, in acidic, humus-rich, and well-drained soil. It will tolerate non-scorching sun in favourable climates but will give its best in partial shade or even shade, protected from intense sunlight and strong winds. Plant in e.g. a shrub bed, alongside other acid-loving plants like Rhododendrons, Azaleas, Cornus kousa, or even Kalmia latifolia. However it would be a shame to drown this exceptional variety, with its unique charm, in a tangle of other foliage or flowers. It deserves a special place near the entrance of the house, or in a beautiful pot on the terrace, to be stored away in winter in very cold climates.