Sasanqua: The Other Camellia

Camellia 'ShiShiGashira'

Though not as well known as their spring flowering cousins, fall blooming camellias are wonderful landscape plants for the southeast and one of my favorite shrubs. 

Sometimes referred to simply as sasanquas from their scientific name, Camellia sasanqua, fall blooming camellias are a group of hardy, durable, evergreen shrubs native to Asia. They make spectacular additions to partially shaded landscapes, offering evergreen foliage and showy flowers at a time of the year when most plants are going to bed for the winter. 

Many varieties are available, with habits ranging from low growing spreading shrubs to upright vigorous bushes that can be trained to grow as small trees. To learn more about how to grow fall blooming camellias and varieties recommended for southeastern North Carolina read the rest of the article on the Pender Cooperative Extension website, http://pender.ces.ncsu.edu/index.php?page=news&ci=LAWN+156.