Our Plant of the Month for March is the beautiful and elegant Camellia.
The Camellia japonica has a rich history in the UK, dating back to the 18th century when it was first introduced from East Asia. Here’s an overview of its journey:
Early Introduction (1730s–1750s)
- Camellia japonica was brought to Britain from China and Japan by traders and botanists.
- The first recorded introduction was likely in the 1730s or 1740s, arriving through the East India Company.
- Wealthy estate owners and plant collectors, inspired by the growing fascination with exotic plants, cultivated Camellias in their heated greenhouses.
Rise in Popularity (18th–19th Century)
- By the late 18th century, Camellias became a status symbol among the British aristocracy.
- They were grown in orangeries and conservatories, as they were not yet widely hardy for outdoor cultivation.
- The early 19th century saw an explosion in interest, particularly as hybridisation and new varieties became available.
- Famous estates such as Chiswick House and Chatsworth House developed grand conservatories to showcase their collections.
Victorian Era Boom (Mid-19th Century)
- As glasshouses became more accessible, Camellias became a favourite of Victorian gardeners.
- Nurseries such as Veitch and Sons imported and propagated new cultivars.
- By the mid-1800s, Camellias began appearing in formal gardens and sheltered outdoor settings in the milder regions of the UK.
Hardy Cultivars & Outdoor Planting (20th Century)
- In the early 20th century, efforts were made to breed and introduce hardier varieties.
- Estates in Cornwall, Devon, and the south coast, such as Tregothnan and Trebah, successfully grew Camellias outdoors.
- Post-WWII, Camellias became a common feature in British gardens as hardier hybrids flourished.
Modern-Day Popularity
- Camellia japonica remains a staple in UK gardens, with many varieties suited to different climates.
- It is celebrated in historic gardens such as Mount Edgcumbe and the Camellia collection at Chiswick House.
- The International Camellia Society, founded in 1962, continues to promote interest and conservation of Camellias worldwide.
Our collection is currently blooming and looking stunning. Visit us and see for yourself!
