Camellia japonica 'Lady Clare'

'Lady Clare' is a pink flowering camellia cultivar in the Theaceae (tea) family.  It appeared as 'Akashigata' in 1898 in its native country of Japan. It was then imported into Europe by Louis van Toutte of Belgium.  He in turn sold it to the Caledonia Nursery where it became knows as 'Lady Clare'.

The semi-double flowers are showy and appear from mid to late winter.  Their ruffled petals resemble crêpe paper, wrinkled and delicate.  It boasts a distinct column of stamens.  

This low maintenance plant can be trimmed or pruned after its blooming period and before buds begin to set in the summer. Because blossoms appear on old growth, pruning later in the year may sacrifice next year’s blooms. It will tolerate a hard pruning.

Makes a great container plant, however, is not winter hardy in colder climates.  Cold, dry wind and frost can cause damage to the buds and flowers.  Providing a sheltered location can protect from wind damage.  

Although mature plants are drought tolerant, newly planted should be kept watered until well established.  Flowers and foliage tend to drop if the young plant is allowed to dry out.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Common insect issues include aphids, tea scale and vine weevil.  Tea scale will appear as yellow blotches on the upper side of the foliage.

Wet conditions can cause root rot.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common camellia diseases and insect pests.

More information on Camellia japonica.