A celebrated japonica with very large, deep blackish-red semi-double blooms accented by a striking boss of golden stamens. Slow and upright, it makes a dramatic shaded feature or cut flower.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 2.5 m H × 1.5 m W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Bob Hope Camellia
Camellia japonica 'Bob Hope' is a slow-growing shrub in the Theaceae family. It reaches around 2.5 m tall and 1.5 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Red flowers appear in winter and spring.
Where to grow Bob Hope Camellia
Bob Hope Camellia suits warm-temperate and cool-temperate climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Bob Hope Camellia does best in acidic and free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Bob Hope Camellia does best with regular, moderate watering. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to support healthy growth. Check moisture below the mulch during establishment and water thoroughly when needed rather than following a rigid schedule.
Pruning & care
Prune Bob Hope Camellia after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Its ongoing care level is low maintenance.
Using Bob Hope Camellia in the garden
Bob Hope Camellia earns its place for a feature or specimen planting, pots and courtyard containers and cut flowers for the vase. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate as Bob Hope Camellia. Repeating the foliage or flower colour nearby will make the composition feel deliberate.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Bob Hope Camellia
Plant Sale lists Bob Hope Camellia as potted plants and advanced specimens. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
