A striking japonica bearing large, formal to peony-form blooms of deep dark red with darker veining and occasional black-red shading. A dramatic feature and exhibition camellia.
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 Tom Knudsen Camellia
Botanically, Camellia japonica 'Tom Knudsen' is a moderate-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 Tom Knudsen Camellia
Tom Knudsen 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
Tom Knudsen 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
Tom Knudsen Camellia is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Tom Knudsen Camellia after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Tom Knudsen Camellia in the garden
Tom Knudsen 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
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Tom Knudsen Camellia with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Tom Knudsen Camellia
Plant Sale lists Tom Knudsen Camellia as potted plants and advanced specimens. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.