The camellia (Camellia japonica) is a delicate, round bloom that emerges from shrubs of rich, evergreen foliage. Originally native to China and Japan, they can survive (and thrive) in most milder climates and shady gardens throughout the U.S. and Europe. Whether you’d like to create a hedge in your yard of dense, lush greenery or you’d like to enjoy the beautiful flowers that range from scarlet, pink, to white (and even a hard-to-find yellow), the camellia could make the perfect addition to your garden or yard! Read on to learn more about the diverse and elegant camellia!
Camellia Meaning and Symbolism
‘Pink Perfection’ is a double bloom with its dense, radiating petals. This pink cultivar has a long window of blooming, starting in the winter months and lasting into May.
©iStock.com/penkanya
While some tie the camellia to the southern charm of places like Charleston, SC, this flowering shrub has its roots in Japan, China, and other Asian countries. Because it blooms in winter and early spring, the flowers are an integral part of Chinese New Year celebrations. It also has links to the Confucian belief system.
In Japan, the camellia played a significant role in Samurai tradition as well as tea ceremonies. The species Camellia sinensis is, in fact, the tea plant used to produce black, green, and white teas. This rich history and cultural significance of the camellia is part of why the flower has so many symbolic meanings. And with over 200 species of camellia, the bloom’s color can help even the most novice flower enthusiast understand its meanings.
Red Camellia
The red camellia is an example of a single bloom for its minimal number of petals, unlike the double bloom of
Camellia japonica‘Pink Perfection’.
©NEWMANM/Shutterstock.com
The deep, scarlet shades of camellia varieties symbolize love and passion. Like the rose, red camellias capture the intensity and depth of romantic love.
Pink Camellia
Camellias are common in the production of tea, but they’re also popular ornamental plants.
©AnnaNel/Shutterstock.com
Pink camellias often symbolize Admiration, affection, and appreciation. The pink blossoms can also represent a longing for a loved one, suggesting a long-distance relationship or the quintessential absence that makes the heart grow fonder.
White Camellia
The white bloom of
Camellia sinesis‘Chinsingganzai’ signifies innocence, and its image has become a powerful symbol in art, culture, and literature. Harper Lee even included them in her 1960 novel,
To Kill a Mockingbird.
©Tharnapoom Voranavin/Shutterstock.com
Another color in alignment with a rose’s symbolism, the white camellia symbolizes purity and innocence. It can also be a symbol of mourning. In Japan, the white camellia is a common funeral flower.
Yellow Camellia
Regardless if you have an unusual yellow camellia like this
Camellia japonica‘Brushfield’s Yellow’ or another cultivar, the plant can benefit from pruning after the flowers have died back, typically in late spring.
©Wirestock/ via Getty Images
Yellow is the rarest color of camellia, so its meaning of singularity or uniqueness is fitting. It can also symbolize friendship, as many yellow flowers do, making it a particularly special gift for a close friend.
Other Camellia Meanings
Regardless of the bloom’s color, the camellia holds a lot of powerful symbolic meaning. Knowing its association with Confucianism, the flower often has ties to the virtues of loyalty and faithfulness in relationships. The connection to Samurai traditions has also made the bloom a symbol for honor and bravery.
Camellia Uses and Occasions
Certain supplements for health benefits, including heart health and reducing stress and anxiety, come from the compounds in the oil of camellia leaves.
©R. Haidy/Shutterstock.com
Beyond the myriad meanings the camellia carries, the flower offers just as many practical uses. Historically, its medicinal properties aided in respiratory and digestive ailments. In this modern era, the flower’s uses are notable in cosmetics and even cuisine!
Fashion & Perfume
As high fashion events like the Met Gala have illustrated, the camellia is emblematic of the clothing line, Chanel. It has become a design element in gowns, handbags, and jewelry. Not only can you wear the image of the camellia, but you can wear it as a fragrance. Essential oils from the plant are sometimes an ingredient in perfumes and skincare products, and they can even serve as aromatherapy.
Cuisine
Tsubaki oil comes from the pressing of camellia seeds. In Japan, the oil is popular in cooking and as a beauty product, adding moisture to skin and hair.
©pullia/ via Getty Images
As mentioned previously, the species Camellia sinensis is the plant used to produce brewed tea. Did you know that the camellia has also been prepared in dishes? Particularly in Japan, the flowers are used to make the culture’s signature dessert, mochi. The flower buds can also be pickled as a garnish on sushi. And the camellia seeds can be pressed for cooking oil or Tsubaki oil.
In the Garden and Vase
Most people purchasing a camellia are more likely to enjoy ornamental varieties in their yards and gardens. To purchase a camellia at a local nursery, it’s likely you’ll bring home a variety of Camellia japonica or Camellia sasanqua. Most of these cultivars can flourish in the hardiness zones 6-10. They’ll be happiest in an area that provides some shade and shelter from harsh winter cold. While the plants prove to be hardy and pest-resistant growing in the garden, the camellia blooms aren’t as long-lasting as a cut stem. The blossoms may only last a day or two in a vase, but the foliage can serve as a verdant texture in a bridal bouquet or Valentine’s Day arrangement.
Camellia: The Bottom Line
The camellia has a rich history, spiritual and emotional symbolism, and cultural significance, and is enjoyable simply for its beauty. Whether you’re trying a dish of authentic mochi or looking to enhance your garden, the camellia offers a depth of beauty and meaning.
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