Camellia williamsii Spring Daze

Camellia 'Spring Daze', also known as Camellia x williamsii or Winter Camellia, stands out for its long flowering period from early winter to early spring. It produces double flowers that bloom in pale pink with a slightly deeper pink edge. This large, elegant Camellia has evergreen, glossy dark green foliage and a highly decorative grey-brown bark. This selection also has the advantage of good hardiness.

Camellia 'Spring Daze' belongs to the Theaceae family. Selected by the Kramer nursery in Upland, California, "Spring Daze" is one of many selections derived from Camellia x williamsii, a hybrid between the Eastern Asian species Camellia japonica and Camellia saluenensis (mountains of Western China). It has a bushy and compact habit, rounded to oval, and a slender silhouette. It reaches a height of 3m (10 ft) with a spread of 2.50m (8 ft). Its growth is slow to moderate. It continuously blooms for a large part of winter and spring. Its double, imbricate flowers are medium-sized and open in a very bright pink gradient. Each flower has many symmetrically arranged petals and a central group of white stamens accompanied by yellow anthers. If protected from frost, 'Spring Daze' blooms from early winter to early spring. Flowering may be delayed in colder situations. The foliage is leathery, glossy dark green, and the leaves are dentate. Finally, the smooth bark of this large shrub is charming in a very soft grey-brown color.

Plant Camellia x williamsii 'Spring Daze' in humus-rich, acid soil that is always moist but well-drained. This bush will thrive in shade, partial shade, or non-scorching sun once established. Although it is one of the hardiest camellia hybrids, the foliage and flower buds may suffer in cold winds and excessive sunlight. The rooting of this plant remains shallow, so it may be beneficial to install a thick mulch around its base to maintain moisture. Regular watering and application of ericaceous plant fertiliser just after flowering will help promote optimal growth. Pruning is not necessary but if required should be done sparingly just after flowering, before the emergence of new spring shoots. Most camellia hybrids do not recover from hard pruning.

'Spring Daze' Camellia belongs to a group of hybrids that is excellent at integrating into the garden. It can be used as a specimen plant, but it will also shine in a flowering hedge or at the back of a mixed border. It is also suitable for cultivation in a large pot on a terrace or sheltered balcony; in this case, attention should be given to the water given the plant (which must be non-calcareous) and regular fertilisation.

The original Camellia x Williamsii was created in Great Britain in the 1930s; by the 1940s several cultivars were highly sought after due to their hardiness and abundant flowering that lasted throughout winter and spring.