It's that time of year!!!  Time for the Camellias to bloom.  This one is Camellia japonica, species: unknown to me.  

 

Camellias are very interesting.  There are several common species:  Camellia japonica, with large glossy leaves;  Camellia sasanqua, with smaller glossy leaves; and Camellia sinensis, the leaves of which are used to make Lipton (and other brands of) tea.

 

Japonica and sasanqua Camellias are well suited to grow in western North Carolina.  They like the climate, and they have many uses in the landscape.  The larger japonicas are great for focal plants, growing up to 10 feet, and blooming from fall into spring.  Sasanqua Camellias are smaller and often used as hedge plants, sheared gently to allow their natural growth habit to shine.  They also bloom from fall into spring.  

 

The Sinensis Camellias are tropical and subtropical, better suited to hillsides in China.  They grow low to the ground, and the leaves are harvested when they are very young.  The leaves are dried, and used to make white, yellow, green, and black teas.  Interesting, huh?

 

Deer proof?  Somewhat, because the leaves are kinda tough.  But, not totally;  when their favorite foods are scarce, deer will eat anything.  Some people put little cages around their Camellias, so the deer can't get to them.  

 

 

HAPPY GARDENING!!!