- Mature height
- 2m to 4m
- Mature width
- 2m to 3m
Camellia japonica 'Elegans Variegated' carries large anemone form flowers, rose pink irregularly broken with white, the centre packed with short petaloids inside broader guard petals. It is a sport of the old cultivar 'Chandleri Elegans'. Growth is spreading and layered rather than upright, on a plant with glossy, lightly serrated leaves.
Filtered light or morning sun suits it, in acidic soil with steady moisture and free drainage. It grows across temperate Australia and tolerates light to moderate frost once established, although the open blooms mark if hit by frost or early morning sun. Growth is moderate at 20 to 50 centimetres a year.
The low, wide frame makes it useful under windows, along low walls and at the front of shaded beds, where an upright camellia would need constant reduction. It has a long history in heritage gardens. Buyers get a spreading habit that fills horizontal space without blocking sightlines.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Elegans Variegated Camellia
What is an Elegans Variegated Camellia?
It is a variegated sport of the old cultivar 'Chandleri Elegans', producing large anemone form flowers in rose pink irregularly blotched with white. The centre is filled with short petaloids surrounded by broader guard petals. Growth is spreading and layered rather than upright, on a plant with glossy serrated leaves.
How big does Elegans Variegated grow?
It typically reaches 1.5 to 2.5 metres high and spreads 2 to 3 metres wide, so it ends up broader than it is tall. Growth is slow to moderate. That habit makes it useful under windows and along low walls where an upright camellia would need constant cutting back.
Does Elegans Variegated need sun or shade?
Partial shade or filtered morning light. The large open flowers mark easily in strong sun and the foliage yellows in full exposure. A position under high deciduous canopy or on the shaded side of a building suits it. Some light is still needed, since deep shade gives poor bud set.
When does Elegans Variegated flower?
Winter through spring, usually July to October in southern Australia. The white blotching varies between flowers and from year to year, and cool seasons tend to produce more heavily marked blooms. Individual flowers are large and last about a week in mild weather before dropping.
Is it drought tolerant?
Only moderately, and only once fully established. Its shallow root system dries out quickly, so summer watering is not optional if you want flowers the following winter. A thick organic mulch does more for drought resilience than frequent shallow watering. In containers, assume regular watering right through summer.
Does Elegans Variegated have invasive roots?
No. The root system is fibrous and shallow, and poses no risk to paving, drains or foundations, so it can be planted close to structures. Those same shallow roots make it a poor competitor against lawn and vigorous groundcovers, so keep a mulched, clear circle around the base.
How do I care for an Elegans Variegated Camellia?
Mulch generously, water deeply in summer, and feed with an acid plant fertiliser once flowering finishes. Prune only to remove dead wood or to lift the lower branches, since the spreading habit is the point of the plant. Check for scale insects and treat with horticultural oil if you find them.
