Camellia sasanqua Kanjiro

The Camellia sasanqua Kanjiro bush grows quite rapidly in clumps. Its upright habit contributes to making it more graceful than Camellia japonica. This less common 'sasanqua' variety blooms from November to February, only stopping when it gets too cold, on the shoots of the current year or those of the previous year. These large rosette flowers, 10 cm (4 in) in diameter, are semi-double and fragrant. The wavy petals are a beautiful bright pink shaded with carmine. The heart of the flower is bright yellow.

The broad elliptical leaves of the Camellia are dark green on top, paler on the underside. They are evergreen and measure 5 to 8 cm (2 to 3 in) long. The plant can reach a height of 3 m (10 ft) at full bloom. It is very hardy (-10° (14 °F)) and originates from Japan and China.

This bush is suitable everywhere. It is more commonly found in old-style gardens but deserves a place anywhere given its beauty. It can be placed at the back of hydrangea borders, as a lively hedge, as well as on its own in e.g. lawns and terraces. It makes for magnificent ground cover in shaded areas or on steep slopes. Plant it near the house to enjoy its autumn flowers. It can also be grown in a minimum 70 cm (28 in) diameter pot. In colder regions, you can bring it indoors to the veranda during flowering.