Camellia japonica Hagoromo

Camellia japonica 'Hagoromo' is a very old Japanese variety also known as 'Magnoliaeflora', probably due to the resemblance of its flowers to those of certain magnolias. Of medium size, they are semi-double and composed of beautifully incurved and delicately coloured opaline pink petals. This absolutely charming flowering takes place from January to May on a bush with a neat upright habit that is also adorned with narrow, twisted, and dark foliage. An irresistible variety that will become the glory of the garden or terrace in mild and humid regions, in acid soil.

Camellia japonica 'Hagoromo', obtained in Japan in the 18th century, has received the RHS Award of Garden Merit for its exceptional ornamental qualities and for its performance in the garden. It belongs to the Theaceae family, just like its ancestor Camellia japonica. It is a bush with medium vigour and fairly slow growth, with a dense but upright habit. At the age of 10, it will reach about 1.4m (5ft) in height and 90cm (36in) in width. At maturity, after 20 years, it can measure more than 2m (7ft) in height and 1.5m (5ft) in width, under good growing conditions. From February to April, it produces semi-double flowers, 10cm (4in) wide, made of thick petals of a very tender pink arranged around a heart of yellow stamens. Its evergreen foliage consists of elliptical leaves, which are quite narrow for a camellia, 10 to 12cm (4 to 5in) long. The leaves are leathery, slightly twisted, dark green and very glossy on the upper side. While this bush is hardy down to -15°C (5°F) in open ground and in a sheltered location, its flowering may be compromised by snow, icy wind, and temperatures below -5°C (23°F).

Camellia japonica 'Hagoromo' thrives in mild and humid climates and performs better in coastal regions, in acidic, humus-rich, and well-drained soil. As for exposure, it will accept morning and evening sun in favourable climates, but it will give its best in semi-shade, protected from scorching sun and strong winds. In the garden, for example, you can plant it within a shrub border, along with other acidophilous plants like Rhododendrons, Azaleas, Cornus Kousa, Japanese Maples, or Kalmia Latifolia. But it would be a shame to drown this 'Hagoromo' variety in a tangle of foliage or flowers. It deserves a special place, near the entrance of the house, or in a beautiful pot on a terrace, to be protected during very cold climates in winter.