Camellia reticulata Ile Crozet

Camellia reticulata 'Ile Crozet' is a superb variety of this species, less well-known than the Japanese Camellia, although its flowers are actually more imposing. This slow-growing bush is adorned with beautiful dark green evergreen foliage, ornamental throughout the seasons. This dark vegetation forms a perfect backdrop against which the light flowering stands out. From February onwards, large semi-double flowers, subtly white with a hint of pale pink, bloom for several weeks. A plant suited for damp climates, the Camellia thrives in Atlantic regions with mild winters. An acidic soil and shady exposure are ideal for it; otherwise, it is preferable to cultivate it in a pot.

Camellia is one of the 10 to 20 genera (depending on botanical classifications) of the Theaceae family, and certainly the most well-known. Other ornamental genera, such as Stewartia, have flowers strongly resembling simple Camellias. The most economically and culturally significant plant in the family is Camellia, specifically C. sinensis, whose leaves are used to produce tea. There are 100 to 250 species of Camellias, and a multitude of horticultural varieties, most of which are derived from the C. japonica species that enjoyed great popularity in Europe in the first half of the 19th century and remains a favourite plant for breeders. Breeders also closely study Camellia reticulata, renowned for having the largest flowers in the genus. Originating from the humid subtropical province of Yunnan in Southern China, it grows in mountainous areas up to 3000 m altitude, sometimes reaching the size of a small tree, occasionally exceeding 10 m in height.
'Ile Crozet' is a creation of the Breton nursery Stervinou, established in 1944, specialised in producing acid soil plants that find ideal soil and climate conditions in this part of northern Finistère. The bush with an erect habit is characterised by relatively slow growth, reaching approximately 1.40 m in height and 80 cm in width after 10 years of cultivation. Like other C. reticulata varieties, it bears beautiful evergreen, elongated elliptical leaves measuring around 12 cm in length and 5 cm in width. Their edges are finely toothed, and their surface is glossy, almost shiny. This dark vegetation is ideal for visually enhancing the light late winter and early spring flowering. From February, lovely floral buds in a vibrant pink open into large corollas about a dozen centimetres in diameter. The semi-double flowers consist of numerous wavy, almost crumpled petals, giving the plant a charming appeal. The white, with some pale pink accents, petals surround a centre of yellow stamens, creating a romantic look reminiscent of some old rose varieties. The flowering lasts until March or April, depending on the year, eye-catching in the garden.

Camellia 'Ile Crozet' will integrate perfectly into an ericaceous plant bed. Hardy to around -12°C, it will thrive in cool, wet climates, protected from excessively cold winters or intense sunlight. Plant it under the light shade of trees to ensure a certain atmospheric humidity in addition to protective shade. Aim for a spread of blooms by planting Rhododendrons and Azaleas alongside, which will take over in spring with their petal-shaped starry trumpet flowers. For summer, a beautiful Hydrangea 'Fraise Melba' with large panicles turning from white to red through pink, or Hydrangea 'Pink Annabelle' with large inflorescences composed of numerous pink florets will animate your planting beautifully. For autumn, consider varieties of Camellia sasanqua whose flowers brave the cold to offer you a superb spectacle in white, pink, or red tones.