Camellia Japonica, Desire

Camellia Japonica, Desire, Large Formal Double. White with pink shading perfectly formed. Medium, bushy growth. Flowering mid-April to mid-September.  Will benefit from twice yearly feeding with specific low ph fertiliser, Scott's Camellia Osmocote slow release plant food. 

The 'Desire' cultivar is known for its beautiful, large, and semi-double to peony-form flowers. The flowers typically measure around 3 to 4 inches in diameter. They have a deep red color with a glossy appearance and prominent yellow stamens in the center. The blooms of 'Desire' usually appear in late winter to early spring, adding a burst of color to the garden when many other plants are dormant.

Camellia japonica 'Desire' is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that can reach a height of around 2.5-4mt and a spread of 2-3mt. It has an upright and dense growth habit, with dark green, glossy leaves that provide an attractive backdrop for the vibrant flowers. The foliage remains evergreen, providing year-round interest in the garden.

To thrive, Camellia japonica 'Desire' prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight. It thrives in well-drained, acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods, but it's important to avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. Applying a layer of mulch around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and maintain a cool root environment.

Pruning of Camellia japonica 'Desire' is usually done after flowering, and it's recommended to shape the plant and remove any dead or diseased branches. Proper pruning can help maintain a compact and well-formed shrub.

Overall, Camellia japonica 'Desire' is a popular cultivar chosen for its striking red flowers and evergreen foliage. It can be grown in gardens or used as an specimen plant in landscapes, providing a touch of elegance and beauty.

Camellia Desire is available from Online Plants, Australia's leading e-commerce plant nursery. Located in Melbourne we offer fast, accurate and careful plant delivery to all Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Canberra and Brisbane, metropolitan and regional areas.

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