'Rose of Autumn' Sasanqua Camellia produces large semi-double flowers with ruffled edges. The dark green leaves are a perfect background for the glowing pink flowers.  An excellent plant for southern gardens. In the fall it blooms with large semi-double to rose shaped deep pink 3-4 inch flowers. As these blooms open up they become more rose-like and turn more baby pink as the bloom ages. Used in France for centuries, particularly with pear and apple trees, this technique is also ideal for small gardens, making it possible to fit a large camellia into a limited space. Espaliers are also a great way to add beauty and elegance to dull walls and austere fences.

Care:

Camellias prefer an acidic, humus rich soil with an organic mulch and average moisture. Once well-established they need little additional care and will continue to perform for years to come. Most Camellias do best where they get light shade or morning sun. Fertilize in spring. If desired, remove all but one bud from each cluster to increase the size of the flower. Prune immediately after flowering.

Growing Habit:

Camellia plants are evergreens in our zone (7) and most of its cultivars are considered to be winter hardy to USDA Zones 7-9. Height at maturity is on Rose of Autumn is 4-6' wide and 6-8' tall. Even where winter hardy, unusually cold temperatures in winter (below 10 degrees F), particularly when occurring as a sudden temperature change, can damage or sometimes kill Camellias (like Gardenias). This is one of the most cold-hardy camellias available, and it is a reliable bloomer even in zone 6, where other camellias fail.

Toxicity:

Camellias are relatively deer resistant. All parts of the plants are non-toxic to pets.