Camellia japonica Nobilissima

Camellia japonica 'Nobilissima', a very old variety with peony-like flowers, is the first white-flowering camellia from Japan to bloom after the varieties of C. sasanqua, starting in November. Its medium-sized flowers are very double in the centre, barely marked with a yellow tinge, and surrounded by a corolla of immaculate white petals. Early and exceptionally long-lasting flowering, on a particularly vigorous bush, as wide as it is tall. An irresistible variety for hedges or large pots, a true treasure for gardens and terraces in coastal, mild and humid regions, in acid soil.

Camellia 'Nobilissima' (syn. 'Fuji-Yama'), obtained in Belgium around 1834, is a plant that owes its fame to Alexandre Dumas' heroine, who cherished its beautiful white peony flowers. It belongs to the family of Theaceae, just like its ancestor Camellia japonica. It is a vigorous and fast-growing bush, with a wide ball-shaped habit and deep rooting, reaching about 1.50 m (5 ft) in height and 1m (3 ft) in spread after 10 years, sometimes more depending on the growing conditions. From November-December to March, it produces numerous very double flowers, 8cm (3 in) wide, with many white petals with a yellow-cream base. Its evergreen foliage consists of large elliptical leaves, 10 to 12 cm (4 to 5 in) long, leathery, dark green and glossy on the upper side. While this bush is hardy down to -10/-15°C (14/5 °F) in open ground, flowering may be compromised by snow, freezing wind and temperatures below -5°C (23 °F).

The 'Nobilissima' Camellia from Japan thrives in mild and humid climates and does best in coastal regions, in acidic, 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 sheltered from strong winds. Plant in e.g. a shrub bed, alongside other acid-loving plants such as Rhododendrons, Azaleas, Cornus Kousa, Japanese maples or the Kalmia Latifolia. But it would be a shame to drown 'Nobilissima' in a tangle of foliage or flowers. It deserves a special place near the entrance of the house, or in a beautiful pot on the terrace, to be stored indoors during winter in cold climates.