- Mature height
- 2m to 4m
- Mature width
- 2m to 3m
Camellia japonica 'Julia France' is an evergreen shrub grown for its very large semi double to peony form flowers in clear soft pink. Petals are broad and slightly waved, opening around a cluster of golden stamens. Foliage is glossy and deep green, and the plant builds an upright, densely furnished frame over time.
A sheltered aspect with filtered light suits it, in acidic, humus rich soil that drains well and never bakes dry. It grows across cool and warm temperate Australia and copes with light to moderate frost once established. Growth is moderate, so it holds its shape and needs only occasional attention with the secateurs.
Plant it as a specimen near a shaded seating area, in a woodland style border, or in a large container framing a doorway. The scale of the flowers gives it presence in small spaces where a single well chosen shrub has to carry the planting. It rewards patience with decades of winter flowering.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Julia France Camellia
What is Camellia japonica 'Julia France'?
It is a japonica camellia cultivar producing unusually large soft pink flowers in a semi double to loose peony form, showing gold stamens at the centre. The shrub itself is evergreen with glossy dark leaves and an upright habit. It is an ornamental exotic, widely planted in cooler Australian gardens.
How big does Julia France Camellia grow?
Given time it reaches about 2 to 4 metres tall and 1.5 to 2.5 metres wide. That is a mature figure after many years, since camellias are not quick. Most buyers find the plant sits around head height for a long stretch, which is generally where they want it anyway.
How fast does it grow?
Growth is moderate, in the order of 20 to 50 cm a year under good conditions. Plants in poor soil or dry positions grow considerably slower. Preparing the planting hole properly with compost, and watering consistently through the first two summers, has more effect on early growth than anything else you can do.
Where does it grow best in Australia?
It is at home in cool and warm temperate regions, taking in Melbourne, Hobart, Adelaide, Canberra, Sydney and their surrounds, plus elevated subtropical areas inland from the Queensland coast. Hot dry interior climates and lowland tropical humidity both work against it, mainly through heat stress and fungal problems on the flowers.
Can it grow in pots?
Yes, and the large flowers make it a good candidate for a feature container. Use a premium camellia and azalea potting mix, a pot at least 50 to 60 cm wide, and position it out of hot afternoon sun. Repot or refresh the top layer of mix every couple of years and water more often than you would in the ground.
Is it suitable for coastal positions?
It suits a sheltered coastal garden but not an exposed front line one. Salt laden wind burns the foliage and shreds the flowers. Behind a fence, a wall or a windbreak of hardier shrubs it does perfectly well, and the mild coastal temperatures actually suit camellias better than harsh inland heat.
How do I care for Julia France Camellia?
Mulch well, keep soil moisture steady through summer while buds are setting, and feed with a camellia and azalea fertiliser once flowering has finished. Prune lightly at the same time to shape the plant. Watch for scale on the undersides of leaves and treat with horticultural oil if it appears.
