Camellia williamsii Tulip Time

Camellia (x) williamsii 'Tulip Time' is part of a series of hybrids known for their hardiness and ease of cultivation. They were obtained by crossing the famous Camellia japonica with C.saluenensis, a robust Chinese species much less known to gardeners. 'Tulip Time', sought after by collectors, is one of the most original: on this beautiful bush with an open habit, numerous small single flowers resembling fully open pink tulips are born. They flower for 3 months, from winter to spring, on elegant evergreen foliage. This excellent variety tolerates sunny sites as well as slightly dry soils in summer.

The hybrid Camellia 'Tulip Time' belongs to the family of Theaceae. It is a variety selected in California in 1981. Its growth is rather fast for a camellia while its habit is particularly airy, although a sunny site will promote slightly denser vegetation. Its slender branches are slightly trailing, which allows them to be trained on a trellis. By the age of 10 it will measure approximately 1.40 m (4-5 ft) in height and 1.20 m (4 ft) in spread. Ultimately, the bush can reach 3.50 m (12 ft) in height and 2.60 m (9 ft) in spread, under ideal conditions. The generous flowering lasts from February to April. The branches are covered with single flowers, 8 cm (3 in) in diameter, composed of 6 long channelled and outwardly arched petals, surrounding a beautiful cluster of yellow stamens. They start with a deeper pink colour at the opening, and fade slightly at the base of the petals when fully bloomed. These flowers gracefully fade, dropping their petals like snow on the ground.

Its evergreen foliage consists of elliptical leaves, 7.5 cm (3 in) in length and 3.8 cm (1.5 in) in width, leathery, finely dentate, dark green and glossy on the upper side. While this bush is hardy down to -12°C (10.4 °F) in the ground, its flowering may be compromised by snow, icy winds, and temperatures below -5°C (23 °F), especially if grown in a pot.

Camellia williamsii 'Tulip Time' particularly thrives in mild and humid climates and performs best in coastal regions, in humus-rich and well-drained soil. It will tolerate full sun in favourable climates, but will perform best in partial shade, protected from scorching sun and strong winds. Plant e.g. in an informal hedge or within a shrub border, alongside other camellias or other acid-loving plants like Rhododendrons, Azaleas, Cornus kousa, Japanese maples, or Kalmia latifolia. But it would be a shame to drown this magnificent variety in a tangle of foliage or flowers. Truly decorative in the garden, it deserves a prominent place near the entrance of the house or not far from a walkway. 'Tulip Time' is particularly suitable for training, for example to adorn an east-facing wall.

Note: unlike rhododendrons, camellias tolerate pot cultivation very well, including non-dwarf varieties. Their compact tufted root system is content with a relatively small space, as long as it is regularly nourished and watered (with non-calcareous water).