Long lived and easy to care for

Camellia Japonicas offer rare winter color in shady spots
  • Camellia japonicas are a favorite in Louisiana landscapes. These evergreen shrubs produce colorful flowers in the winter, which also is a great time to plan them. Photo by Olivia McClure/LSU AgCenter
    Camellia japonicas are a favorite in Louisiana landscapes. These evergreen shrubs produce colorful flowers in the winter, which also is a great time to plan them. Photo by Olivia McClure/LSU AgCenter
  • The flowers of many camellia japonica cultivars feature stripes, which are caused by genetic variations. Photo by Olivia McClure/LSU AgCenter
    The flowers of many camellia japonica cultivars feature stripes, which are caused by genetic variations. Photo by Olivia McClure/LSU AgCenter
  • Camellias are close to the heart of Michael Polozola, LSU AgCenter fruit and nut specialist. He grew up growing camellias with his grandparents, inspiring him to pursue a career in horticulture. Photo by Olivia McClure/LSU AgCenter
    Camellias are close to the heart of Michael Polozola, LSU AgCenter fruit and nut specialist. He grew up growing camellias with his grandparents, inspiring him to pursue a career in horticulture. Photo by Olivia McClure/LSU AgCenter
  • Camellia japonicas produce a wide variety of flower colors, variegations, shapes and sizes. Photo by Olivia McClure/LSU AgCenter
    Camellia japonicas produce a wide variety of flower colors, variegations, shapes and sizes. Photo by Olivia McClure/LSU AgCenter
    Trying to find plants that bloom profusely in the shade during the dreary wintertime can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Your options are few and far between: Most flowers need lots of sunlight, and many plants simply do not bloom in the colder months.But camellia japonicas step up to the plate year after year, brightening shady spots with white, pink, red and multicolore...

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