A Good Gardening Guide
The genus "Camellia" has a long and illustrious history. It has been cultivated and hybridised for centuries, and was the centre of ancient Asian festivals, the focus of botanical interest in Europe in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries and a coloniser of the New World. There are many species and countless varieties of this popular flowering shrub, and each offers something different to the home gardener. As well as being grown for their wonderful flower shapes, colours and fragrance, camellias can be trained as standards or espaliers, grown in hedges, used in containers, hanging baskets and window boxes, or as unusual groundcovers. Over 150 camellia species and varieties are described, as well as their cultivation requirements, how to choose and plant camellias, pruning, pests and diseases, and propagation. A handy seasonal maintenance calendar is also included. Outstanding photographs and an engaging text will inspire both the committed camellia enthusiast and the novice to grow and enjoy these delightful plants.
