An interesting and beautiful plant that you may see from time to time in Newport and coastal southern New England gardens is the heart-stopping camellia. While generally believed to be too tender for successful culture in the Northeast, certain cold hardy varieties of camellia can be grown in Newport if planted in a protected location.
Don’t believe me? The proof is in the plants, with multiple plants flowering around town this spring. I stumbled across a pair with deep red flowers, planted in a relatively unprotected location, and flowering beautifully. Another pink stunner in a more protected spot was also in bloom, with little to no foliar damage from icy wind chills.
If you wish to grow camellias, it is important to procure proven, cold hardy types, as these plants will give you the best chance for breathtaking displays from the end of summer to spring.
Camellia japonica, C. sasanqua, and C. sinensis, all native to various parts of Asia, are among the most common species in cultivation. With the countless cultivated varieties and hybrids in existence, the variability in habitat, foliage, and flower color and shape is remarkable. A protected planting location is crucial when growing camellias; they need shelter from the strong coastal winds that can damage the foliage and flowers. Acidic, loamy soil is a must, but don’t over fertilize these plants, as new growth is more susceptible to cold damage.
— Joe Verstandig, Living Collections Manager, Newport Tree Conservancy
