An exquisite formal-double japonica whose pale blush petals deepen to clear rose-pink at the edges, opening with perfect symmetry. Slow and refined, it is prized as a feature plant and 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 Desire Camellia
Camellia japonica 'Desire' 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. Pink and white flowers appear in winter and spring.
Where to grow Desire Camellia
Desire 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
Desire 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
Desire Camellia does best with regular, moderate watering. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to support healthy growth. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Prune Desire Camellia after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Its ongoing care level is low maintenance.
Using Desire Camellia in the garden
Desire 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 Desire 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 Desire Camellia
Plant Sale lists Desire Camellia as potted plants and advanced specimens. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
