Camellia reticulata is native to southwestern China, particularly in Yunnan Province. It has been cultivated in China for centuries, originally for its beautiful flowers. Camellia reticulata was first introduced to the Western world in the early 19th century. However, it wasn’t until the 20th century that it became more widely known and cultivated outside China, particularly after plant hunters like George Forrest collected seeds from Yunnan in the early 1900s. In China, this camellia is highly prized for its large, showy flowers, and there are temples and gardens dedicated specifically to this species.
Characteristics
- Size: Camellia reticulata can grow into a large shrub or small tree, typically reaching heights of 10 to 20 feet or even taller under optimal conditions.
- Leaves: The leaves are large, leathery, dark green, and have a distinctive net-like (reticulate) pattern of veins, which gives the species its name. They are elliptical and can be up to 11 cm long.
- Flowers: This species is renowned for having some of the largest flowers in the Camellia genus, with blooms that can be up to 6 inches (15 cm) across. The flowers are usually semi-double to fully double and come in shades of pink to deep crimson.
- Growth Habit: It tends to have an open, somewhat leggy growth habit compared to other camellias, which can be mitigated by pruning.
Cultivation
- Climate: It performs best in USDA zones 8-10, preferring milder winters. It can be more finicky with temperature extremes compared to other camellias.
- Soil: Like other camellias, it requires acidic, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Prefers partial shade but can tolerate more sun if the soil is kept consistently moist. However, too much direct sunlight can lead to leaf scorch.
- Watering: Needs regular watering, especially in dry periods, but should never be waterlogged.
- Pruning: Pruning should be done after flowering to shape the plant or to remove dead or weak wood. Since it can become quite leggy, some gardeners train it against walls or trellises.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants in spring.
- Pests and Diseases: Susceptible to the usual camellia pests like scale, aphids, and sometimes spider mites. Diseases can include petal blight, root rot if overwatered, and leaf gall.
- Propagation: While it can be grown from seed, for maintaining cultivar characteristics, it’s usually propagated by grafting or cuttings. Grafting onto a vigorous rootstock can make reticulata cultivars more robust.
- Uses: Due to its large flowers, Camellia reticulata is often used as a specimen plant in gardens. Its less dense foliage compared to other camellias makes it less suitable for hedging but excellent for adding vertical interest or as a focal point in landscape design.