Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub
Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub
Most loved for its sprays of creamy white bell flowers in late winter and spring, followed by bronze red new growth, on a compact evergreen frame that suits shade and pots.
- Current height guide
- Please enquire
- Pot size
- 30cm
Approximate only. Minimum height important? Confirm with us.
Height guide & disclaimer
Height guide disclaimer: Height ranges are approximate only. As living products, plant heights naturally vary between individual plants, batches, and seasons. No guarantee is given that supplied plants will fall within the stated range. If minimum heights are required, you must confirm current batch heights with Evergreen Trees Direct prior to purchase. Variation in height is normal and is not grounds for return, refund, replacement, or compensation.
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About this tree
About this tree
- Mature height
- 1.5m to 2m (approx.)
- Mature width
- 1m to 1.5m (approx.)
Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' gives two displays a year from one compact evergreen shrub. Through late winter and spring it hangs dense sprays of creamy white, bell shaped flowers across the canopy. Fresh bronze red growth follows, then settles to a glossy deep green.
It is compact and slow growing, reaching about 1.5 to 2 metres tall and 1 to 1.5 metres wide with an upright, tiered habit. Slow growth means it holds its shape with very little pruning, which makes it a reliable choice for pots, courtyards and narrow beds.
This is a shade plant. Morning sun with afternoon shade, or bright filtered light under trees, gives the best flowering and leaf colour. Plant it in moist, acidic, humus rich soil that drains freely, and keep it out of hot drying winds. It handles frost once established.
Use it in Japanese inspired and woodland gardens, along shaded paths and entries, or as a feature in a glazed pot. It sits naturally with camellias, azaleas and Japanese maples, which want the same conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Pieris 'Temple Bells'
How big does Pieris 'Temple Bells' grow?
About 1.5 to 2 metres tall and 1 to 1.5 metres wide. It is slow growing, so it takes several years to reach full size and stays compact without regular pruning.
When does it flower?
Late winter into spring. Creamy white, bell shaped flowers hang in drooping sprays through the foliage. The buds form in autumn and sit on the plant through winter, so it looks decorative before it opens.
Will it grow in full sun?
It does best in part shade. Hot afternoon sun and dry wind scorch the leaves. In cooler districts it will take morning sun, but give it shelter from the afternoon.
What soil does it need?
Moist, acidic, humus rich soil that drains well, the same as azaleas and camellias. Alkaline soil causes yellow leaves and poor growth. Work in compost before planting and mulch to keep the roots cool and moist.
Can I grow it in a pot?
Yes. Its slow growth and compact habit suit pots well. Use a quality azalea and camellia potting mix, water regularly and do not let the mix dry out.
When should I prune it?
Straight after flowering, and only lightly, to tidy the shape and remove spent flower sprays. Pruning in autumn or winter removes the next season's flower buds.
Is it toxic to pets?
Yes. All parts of Pieris are toxic if eaten, to people, dogs, cats and livestock. Plant it away from areas where pets or young children chew plants.
Mature height & width
Mature height & width
- Mature height
- 1.5m to 2m (approx.)
- Mature width
- 1m to 1.5m (approx.)
Pot sizes & dimensions
Pot sizes & dimensions
| Pot / bag size | Width | Depth |
|---|---|---|
| 30cm Pot | 33cm | 30cm |
| 40cm/45L Pot | 44cm | 41.5cm |
| 50cm Pot / 70L Pot | 55cm | 41.8cm |
| 100L Bag | 50.6cm | 52.8cm |
| 150L Bag | 66cm | 55cm |
| 200L Bag | 71.5cm | 60.5cm |
| 300L Bag | 88cm | 63.8cm |
| 400L Bag | 99cm | 66cm |
| 500L Bag | 122cm | 66cm |
| 750L Bag | 134cm | 69cm |
| 1000L Bag | 146.3cm | 71.5cm |
| 2000L Bag | 176cm | 82.5cm |
General planting reference from our existing size guide. Actual containers can vary by supplier and batch; confirm exact dimensions if required.
Delivery & pickup
Delivery & pickup
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About Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells'
Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' gives two displays a year from one compact evergreen shrub. Through late winter and spring it hangs dense sprays of creamy white, bell shaped flowers across the canopy. Fresh bronze red growth follows, then settles to a glossy deep green.
It is compact and slow growing, reaching about 1.5 to 2 metres tall and 1 to 1.5 metres wide with an upright, tiered habit. Slow growth means it holds its shape with very little pruning, which makes it a reliable choice for pots, courtyards and narrow beds.
This is a shade plant. Morning sun with afternoon shade, or bright filtered light under trees, gives the best flowering and leaf colour. Plant it in moist, acidic, humus rich soil that drains freely, and keep it out of hot drying winds. It handles frost once established.
Use it in Japanese inspired and woodland gardens, along shaded paths and entries, or as a feature in a glazed pot. It sits naturally with camellias, azaleas and Japanese maples, which want the same conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Pieris 'Temple Bells'
How big does Pieris 'Temple Bells' grow?
About 1.5 to 2 metres tall and 1 to 1.5 metres wide. It is slow growing, so it takes several years to reach full size and stays compact without regular pruning.
When does it flower?
Late winter into spring. Creamy white, bell shaped flowers hang in drooping sprays through the foliage. The buds form in autumn and sit on the plant through winter, so it looks decorative before it opens.
Will it grow in full sun?
It does best in part shade. Hot afternoon sun and dry wind scorch the leaves. In cooler districts it will take morning sun, but give it shelter from the afternoon.
What soil does it need?
Moist, acidic, humus rich soil that drains well, the same as azaleas and camellias. Alkaline soil causes yellow leaves and poor growth. Work in compost before planting and mulch to keep the roots cool and moist.
Can I grow it in a pot?
Yes. Its slow growth and compact habit suit pots well. Use a quality azalea and camellia potting mix, water regularly and do not let the mix dry out.
When should I prune it?
Straight after flowering, and only lightly, to tidy the shape and remove spent flower sprays. Pruning in autumn or winter removes the next season's flower buds.
Is it toxic to pets?
Yes. All parts of Pieris are toxic if eaten, to people, dogs, cats and livestock. Plant it away from areas where pets or young children chew plants.
- Foliage
Evergreen (foliage year round)
- Position
- Form
- Use
- Mature height
- 1.5m to 2m (approx.)
- Mature width
- 1m to 1.5m (approx.)
Planting Information
Recommended Planting Spacing For Your Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub
Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub is expected to grow Slow growing, holds a compact shape (approx.).
Long Term Care For Your Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub
Planting Your Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub in Different Soil
Uses in my Garden
Uses in my Garden
Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub works in an:
Is Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub Evergreen or Deciduous?
Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub is an Evergreen (foliage year round) Tree
Mature Height & Width
Mature Height: 1.5m to 2m (approx.)
Mature Width: 1m to 1.5m (approx.)
Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub is expected to grow Slow growing, holds a compact shape (approx.).
Growth Rate of Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub
Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub is expected to grow Slow growing, holds a compact shape (approx.).
They are considered to have a:
Frost Tolerance & Ideal Climate to plant Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub
Is Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub frost tolerant?
Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub is Frost Tolerant – Can handle light to moderate frost once established.
Does Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub Flower?
Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' carries dense, drooping sprays of creamy white, bell shaped flowers from late winter into spring. The buds form in autumn and hold through winter, so the shrub looks decorative for months before it opens. Bronze red new growth follows the flowers.
Does Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub flower?
Flowering Period:
Flower Type:
Flower Colour:
White
Is Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub an Australian Native Tree?
No
Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub is Native to The Ryukyu Islands, the chain running south from mainland Japan towards Taiwan, where it grows in mild, humid conditions.
What is the Wildlife Value of Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub ?
The late winter and spring flowers give bees an early nectar source when little else is open. The dense evergreen foliage also gives small birds year round cover in shaded parts of the garden.
How much Sunlight does Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub need?
Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub will thrive best in:
Preferred Soil?
Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' needs moist, acidic, humus rich soil that drains freely, the same conditions as azaleas and camellias. Alkaline soil causes yellow leaves and slow growth. Work in compost before planting and use an azalea and camellia mix in pots.
Is Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub Drought Tolerant?
Is Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub Drought tolerant?
Pieris is not drought tolerant. It wants consistently moist soil, and dry roots or hot dry wind cause leaf scorch and poor flowering. Water regularly through summer, mulch well, and pay closer attention to plants in pots, which dry out faster.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big does Pieris 'Temple Bells' grow?
About 1.5 to 2 metres tall and 1 to 1.5 metres wide. Slow growing and compact.
When does it flower?
Late winter into spring, with creamy white bell shaped flowers in drooping sprays.
Will it grow in full sun?
Best in part shade. Hot afternoon sun and dry wind scorch the leaves.
What soil does it need?
Moist, acidic, humus rich soil that drains well, the same as azaleas and camellias.
Can I grow it in a pot?
Yes. Use an azalea and camellia mix and keep it evenly moist.
When should I prune it?
Lightly, straight after flowering. Pruning in autumn or winter removes next season's buds.
Is it toxic to pets?
Yes. All parts are toxic if eaten, to people, dogs, cats and livestock.
Compare sizes side by side
30cm
Heights are approximate and vary between individual trees.
Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' is loved for its sprays of creamy white bell flowers in late winter and spring, followed by bronze red new growth, on a compact evergreen frame that suits shade and pots.
We take pride in supplying A+ grade advanced trees. When stock at our farm is not yet ready, we work with our trusted trade suppliers to source the best available trees for your garden.
Plant Your Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub With:
Trachelospermum jasminoides Balls – Star Jasmine Balls
Trachelospermum jasminoides Balls – Star Jasmine Balls
Trachelospermum jasminoides 'Balls' is Star Jasmine grown and clipped into a dense evergreen sphere. The small glossy leaves sit tight on a woody framework, holding a clean rounded outline year round. White pinwheel flowers open in spring and carry a strong sweet scent right across a courtyard.
Ball specimens hold at about 1 to 1.5 metres tall and wide with light clipping. Full sun to part shade suits them, in any free draining soil. Growth is slow to moderate at 30 to 50 centimetres a year. They handle coastal exposure, light frost and dry spells once the roots are down.
Repeat them along a driveway, either side of an entry, or in pots on a terrace where a formal shape is wanted straight away. They read as structure in a planting scheme without the height of a hedge, and because the form is already trained, a new garden looks settled from the day it goes in.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Star Jasmine Balls
What are Star Jasmine Balls?
They are Trachelospermum jasminoides, the common Star Jasmine, grown and clipped into a dense evergreen sphere on a woody framework. Instead of climbing, the plant is trained into a self supporting rounded shape. The foliage is small, glossy and dark green, and the plant carries scented white flowers through spring.
How big do Star Jasmine Balls grow?
They hold at roughly 1 to 1.5 metres tall and 1 to 1.5 metres wide. Growth is slow to moderate at 30 to 50 centimetres a year, so a light clip once or twice a year keeps the ball tight at whatever size within that range suits the setting.
Do Star Jasmine Balls need sun or shade?
Full sun to part shade both work. Full sun gives the densest foliage and the heaviest flowering, while part shade produces slightly softer, more open growth and fewer flowers. Avoid deep shade, where the ball thins out and loses its outline. Morning sun with afternoon protection suits hot inland gardens.
Can Star Jasmine Balls be grown in pots?
Yes, and pots are one of the main uses. A container 50 to 60 centimetres wide with a quality free draining mix will hold a ball for years. Water more often than you would in the ground, especially in summer, and feed in spring and again in late summer. Refresh the mix every few years.
Are Star Jasmine Balls evergreen?
Yes, the foliage is held year round. The glossy dark green leaves take on a bronze tinge in cold weather and green up again in spring, but the plant never goes bare. That is what makes it useful as permanent structure in a scheme, particularly in winter once perennials have died back.
When do Star Jasmine Balls flower?
Flowering runs through spring, roughly September to November, and often carries into early summer in warmer districts. The white pinwheel flowers are small but produced in quantity, and the scent is strong on still evenings. Flowering is heaviest on plants in full sun that were not clipped hard just before bud set.
How do I prune and care for Star Jasmine Balls?
Clip lightly with hedging shears once after flowering and again in late summer if needed, taking only the new growth to keep the outline crisp. Water deeply in dry weather, mulch the base, and feed in early spring. The sap is milky and can irritate skin, so wear gloves when trimming.
Trachelospermum jasminoides Balls – Star Jasmine Balls

Westringia fruticosa – Coastal Rosemary
Westringia fruticosa – Coastal Rosemary
Westringia fruticosa, Coastal Rosemary, is an Australian native evergreen shrub from the headlands and dunes of the east coast. It builds a dense rounded bush of fine grey green leaves held in whorls, with small white to pale lilac flowers. Despite the common name it is not the culinary herb.
Mature plants sit at 1.5 to 2 metres tall and 1.5 to 2 metres wide, growing 30 to 60 centimetres a year, and they clip smaller without complaint. Full sun to part shade and sharp drainage are the requirements. Salt wind, sandy soil, drought and light to moderate frost are all handled.
It is a standard on coastal projects, road verges, council garden beds and exposed banks that need erosion cover. Plant 1 to 1.5 metres apart for an informal screen, or 80 centimetres for a clipped hedge. A single plant fills a 40 to 50 centimetre pot on a courtyard or balcony.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Coastal Rosemary
What is Coastal Rosemary?
Westringia fruticosa is an Australian native evergreen shrub from the headlands and dunes of the east coast. It forms a dense rounded bush of fine grey green leaves held in whorls, with small white to pale lilac flowers. Despite the common name it is not culinary rosemary and is not used in cooking.
How big does Coastal Rosemary grow?
Mature plants reach 1.5 to 2 metres tall and 1.5 to 2 metres wide. It clips readily to smaller dimensions and is often maintained at around a metre as a hedge or a low mound. Growth is moderate, roughly 30 to 60 centimetres a year, so it holds a trimmed shape well.
Is Coastal Rosemary suitable for coastal positions?
It is one of the best shrubs available for exposed coastal work. It grows naturally on sea cliffs and copes with salt laden wind, sand and reflected heat. It is used constantly on beachfront reserves, dune stabilisation projects and seaside gardens where little else holds a tidy shape.
When does Coastal Rosemary flower?
The main flush is spring and summer, roughly September through February, with scattered flowering at other times of the year in mild districts. The flowers are small, white to pale lilac and sit among the foliage rather than above it. Clipped hedges flower less than plants left to grow informally.
How far apart should I plant Coastal Rosemary for a hedge?
Space plants 80 centimetres apart for a tight formal hedge, or 1 to 1.5 metres apart for a dense informal screen. On banks and batters used for erosion cover, 1 metre in a staggered grid gives full ground coverage within about two growing seasons.
Can Coastal Rosemary grow in pots?
Yes. A pot 40 to 50 centimetres wide suits a single plant for a courtyard, entry or balcony. Use a free draining mix, because the roots will not tolerate sitting wet. Container plants need watering more often than those in the ground, plus a light trim to hold their shape.
How do I prune and care for Coastal Rosemary?
Trim lightly two or three times a year, taking the soft new growth and avoiding cuts into bare old wood, which reshoots poorly. Water through the first summer, then only in extended dry spells. On most soils it needs no feeding at all, and it resents heavy watering and poor drainage.
Westringia fruticosa – Coastal Rosemary

Westringia ‘Wynyabbie Blue’ – Wynyabbie Blue Coastal Rosemary
Westringia ‘Wynyabbie Blue’ – Wynyabbie Blue Coastal Rosemary
Westringia 'Wynyabbie Blue' is a hardy Australian native shrub grown for its lilac blue flowers, which are larger and more freely carried than those of the common white forms. Narrow grey green leaves sit in neat whorls on a dense rounded frame that holds its shape through the year.
Expect 1.5 to 2 metres in height and width at maturity, at 30 to 60 centimetres a year. Full sun brings the heaviest flowering, though part shade is accepted. Drainage matters above everything else, after which it takes salt wind, sandy or gravelly ground, drought and light to moderate frost.
Mass plantings on batters, median strips and coastal frontages are where it earns its keep, and it clips into a low hedge of about a metre without losing its flowering. Plant 1 to 1.5 metres apart for an informal screen. One plant fills a 40 to 50 centimetre pot neatly.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Wynyabbie Blue Coastal Rosemary
What is Westringia Wynyabbie Blue?
Westringia 'Wynyabbie Blue' is a hardy Australian native shrub grown for its lilac blue flowers, which are larger and more freely carried than those of the common white forms. Narrow grey green leaves sit in neat whorls on a dense rounded frame. It is evergreen and holds its structure all year.
How big does Wynyabbie Blue grow?
It reaches 1.5 to 2 metres tall and 1.5 to 2 metres wide at maturity, growing 30 to 60 centimetres a year. It clips comfortably to around a metre if you want a lower hedge, and it will hold that height indefinitely given two or three light trims a year.
When does Wynyabbie Blue flower?
From spring right through autumn, roughly September to May, with sporadic flowers in winter in mild districts. The lilac blue flowers open in flushes rather than all at once, so there is usually some colour on the plant. Flowering is heaviest in full sun on lean, well drained soil.
Is Wynyabbie Blue drought tolerant?
Yes. Once the roots are established it needs very little water and copes with extended dry periods, which is why it is used on unirrigated median strips and road verges. Drainage matters more than watering, since the plant will die in soggy ground long before it dies of thirst.
Is Wynyabbie Blue suitable for coastal positions?
It is. Salt laden wind, sandy soils and reflected heat are all handled, and it is planted routinely on foreshore reserves and beachside gardens. In very exposed frontal positions the plant stays lower and denser than it would inland, which generally suits the situation anyway.
How far apart should I plant Wynyabbie Blue for a hedge?
Use 80 centimetres between plants for a clipped formal hedge, or 1 to 1.5 metres for a dense informal screen. For mass planting on banks and median strips, 1 metre in a staggered pattern gives full coverage within about two growing seasons and shades out most weeds.
How do I prune and care for Wynyabbie Blue?
Trim lightly after each flowering flush, taking soft growth only. Cutting back into bare old wood leaves gaps that will not fill in, so stay on top of it rather than letting it get away. Water through the first summer, then rarely. Avoid rich soils and heavy fertiliser.
Westringia ‘Wynyabbie Blue’ – Wynyabbie Blue Coastal Rosemary

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Perfect Substitutes for Pieris ryukyuensis 'Temple Bells' - Lily of the Valley Shrub
Rhododendron spp. – Rhododendron
Rhododendron spp. – Rhododendron
Rhododendrons are among the most spectacular flowering shrubs available, producing masses of large colourful blooms that create an outstanding spring display. Their lush evergreen foliage provides year-round structure, while the flowers appear in a wide range of colours including pink, red, white, purple, and yellow, making them highly prized feature plants for cool-climate gardens.
These evergreen shrubs perform best in partial shade and fertile, moisture-retentive acidic soils rich in organic matter. Rhododendrons thrive in cooler climates where they benefit from protection from hot afternoon sun and drying winds. Regular mulching and consistent soil moisture encourage healthy growth and abundant flowering.
They look excellent when used in woodland gardens, cottage gardens, shaded borders, mass plantings, and feature displays where their impressive spring flowering can be fully appreciated. Their dense evergreen habit and long-lived nature make them valuable additions to both traditional and contemporary landscapes.
Rhododendron spp. – Rhododendron

Azalea indica 'Alphonse Anderson' – Alphonse Anderson Azalea
Azalea indica 'Alphonse Anderson' – Alphonse Anderson Azalea
Azalea indica 'Alphonse Anderson' is one of the classic indica azaleas, grown for a flower most other azaleas cannot match. The blooms are large and single, soft pink with a clean white edge and a deeper pink throat, and they come in such quantity that the foliage disappears behind them.
Flowering runs through late winter and early spring, with a lighter spot flowering again in autumn. It makes a rounded evergreen shrub of roughly 1 to 2 metres each way, with small dark leaves held densely enough to clip. It takes full sun through to semi shade, which gives it more range than most azaleas, though the flowers hold their colour longest with protection from harsh afternoon sun.
Azaleas want acidic, free-draining soil rich in organic matter, and they are shallow rooted, so mulch matters more than it does for most shrubs. Keep the mulch topped up, water through dry spells, and do not let the root zone bake.
The 30cm and 40cm are the natural shrub form for beds, borders and mass planting. The 50cm and 90L Ball Forms are pre-clipped formal spheres, ready to place, which is a rare thing in a flowering plant: structure through the year and a heavy flush of pink in late winter.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Azalea indica 'Alphonse Anderson'
What do the flowers look like?
Large single flowers, soft pink with a white edge and a deeper pink throat. The white margin is what sets 'Alphonse Anderson' apart from the plain pink indicas, and it reads clearly from a distance rather than only up close.
When does it flower?
The main flush is late winter into early spring. It will also spot flower again in autumn, so you get a second lighter display out of it in the same year.
What sizes and forms are available?
Four. The 30cm and 40cm are the natural shrub form for beds, borders and mass planting. The 50cm and 90L Ball Forms are specimens already clipped into formal spheres, ready to place, with the training and growing-on time already done.
How big does it grow?
Around 1 to 2 metres tall and the same across, forming a rounded shrub. It is easily held smaller with a trim after flowering, and the Ball Forms are maintained permanently at their clipped size.
Sun or shade?
Either. It handles full sun through to semi shade, which gives it more range than most azaleas. In hot inland districts the flowers hold their colour longest with some protection from harsh afternoon sun.
Is an azalea the same as a rhododendron?
Botanically yes. Azaleas sit within the genus Rhododendron, but the nursery trade keeps them separate because they behave differently in the garden: smaller leaves, smaller habit, and a heavier flowering display for their size. 'Alphonse Anderson' belongs to the indica group, the azaleas most widely grown in Australia.
How do I care for it?
Plant into acidic, free-draining soil improved with compost. Azaleas are shallow rooted, so keep a layer of pine bark or leaf mulch over the root zone at all times and never let it dry out completely. Trim straight after flowering, before next season's buds set. Feed with an azalea and camellia fertiliser at the same time. Yellowing between the leaf veins means the soil is too alkaline, and iron chelate will correct it.
Azalea indica 'Alphonse Anderson' – Alphonse Anderson Azalea

Camellia sasanqua 'Yuletide' – Yuletide Camellia
Camellia sasanqua 'Yuletide' – Yuletide Camellia
Camellia sasanqua 'Yuletide' is a compact evergreen flowering shrub valued for its vivid red single flowers with bright golden-yellow centres, produced through late autumn and winter when most gardens are without flower. Named for its Christmas flowering in the Northern Hemisphere, in Australia 'Yuletide' brings its brilliant red blooms through May, June and July when seasonal colour is most needed.
It performs reliably in warm temperate to subtropical climates with full sun to part shade and prefers humus-rich slightly acidic soil with good drainage. Mature plants reach 2 to 3 metres tall and 1.5 to 2 metres wide, forming a dense upright habit that responds well to light pruning. Unlike Camellia japonica varieties, sasanqua Camellias tolerate full sun reliably, which makes 'Yuletide' suitable for a wider range of garden positions.
As a winter-flowering evergreen for cottage, formal, Japanese-inspired and low-maintenance gardens, in informal hedges, feature plantings, small front-garden specimens and decorative pots near pathways and entrances, Camellia sasanqua 'Yuletide' brings brilliant red winter flowering, glossy evergreen foliage and a compact upright habit that holds its form with minimal maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Camellia sasanqua 'Yuletide'
When does 'Yuletide' flower?
In Australia, 'Yuletide' flowers from late autumn through winter, typically May through July, with light flowering possible into August in cooler regions. The flowering display lasts several months and provides important seasonal colour when most other garden plants are dormant or out of flower.
How big does 'Yuletide' grow?
'Yuletide' reaches approximately 2 to 3 metres tall and 1.5 to 2 metres wide at maturity, forming a dense upright shrub. Growth is slow to moderate at 20 to 30 cm per year, and the plant can be pruned to maintain a smaller size or shaped into a formal hedge.
Where does 'Yuletide' grow best?
'Yuletide' performs reliably across warm temperate to subtropical Australia, from subtropical Queensland through coastal NSW, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and into the tablelands. It prefers full sun to part shade with humus-rich slightly acidic soil and protection from harsh afternoon sun in hot inland areas. Avoid tropical Queensland and very alkaline soils.
Is 'Yuletide' frost tolerant?
Yes. 'Yuletide' is frost tolerant once established and handles light to moderate frost without damage to foliage or flower buds. The winter flowers actually open through frosty mornings without issue. Young plants benefit from protection in their first winter in heavily frost-prone inland positions.
Can 'Yuletide' grow in pots?
Yes. 'Yuletide' is excellent in large decorative pots near entrances, courtyards and on terraces, where its winter flowering display can be appreciated up close. Use a quality potting mix designed for acid-loving plants, water regularly through the warmer months, and feed with an acid-loving plant food in spring and again after flowering.
Can 'Yuletide' be used as a hedge?
Yes. 'Yuletide' responds well to pruning and is widely used as an informal flowering hedge or screen at 1 to 1.5 metres spacing. Trim lightly after flowering to maintain density and shape. The dense glossy foliage gives a quality formal appearance year-round, with the bonus of the brilliant red winter flowering display.
How do I care for Camellia sasanqua 'Yuletide'?
Water regularly during the growing season to keep the soil evenly moist but never waterlogged. Feed with an acid-loving plant food in spring and again after flowering in late winter. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage dense bushy growth. Mulch annually with an acidic mulch like pine bark to maintain the soil conditions Camellias prefer, and keep the mulch clear of the trunk.
Camellia sasanqua 'Yuletide' – Yuletide Camellia

Gardenia augusta ‘Magnifica’ – Magnifica Gardenia
Gardenia augusta ‘Magnifica’ – Magnifica Gardenia
Gardenia augusta 'Magnifica' is a compact evergreen flowering shrub valued for its large highly fragrant double white flowers and lush glossy dark green foliage. From late spring through summer it produces creamy-white blooms up to 10 cm across that perfume the surrounding garden, set against broad leathery leaves that hold their colour year-round.
It performs reliably in full sun to part shade with humus-rich, slightly acidic and free-draining soil. Mature plants reach 1.5 to 2 metres tall and 1 to 1.5 metres wide, forming a dense rounded habit that responds well to light pruning after flowering. Gardenia 'Magnifica' is frost tolerant once established and benefits from regular feeding and watering through the warmer months to support strong flowering.
As a fragrant evergreen flowering shrub for cottage, formal, Japanese-inspired and low-maintenance gardens, in courtyards, entrance plantings, informal hedges and decorative pots near pathways, Gardenia augusta 'Magnifica' brings outstanding perfume, glossy foliage and reliable summer flowering to gardens where its scent can be appreciated up close.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Gardenia augusta 'Magnifica' Magnifica Gardenia
When does Gardenia 'Magnifica' flower?
Gardenia 'Magnifica' flowers from late spring through summer, producing large creamy-white double blooms up to 10 cm across. The flowers are intensely fragrant and the display lasts for several months, with light repeat flowering possible into autumn in warm conditions.
How big does Gardenia 'Magnifica' grow?
Mature plants reach approximately 1.5 to 2 metres tall and 1 to 1.5 metres wide, forming a dense rounded habit. Growth is moderate at 20 to 40 cm per year, and the plant can be lightly pruned to maintain a more compact size or shaped into a formal flowering hedge.
Where does Gardenia 'Magnifica' grow best?
Gardenia 'Magnifica' performs best in warm temperate to subtropical climates with full sun to part shade. It thrives across coastal NSW, Queensland, frost-free parts of Victoria and South Australia, and warm coastal areas. It prefers humus-rich slightly acidic soil and protection from harsh afternoon sun in hot inland areas.
Is Gardenia 'Magnifica' frost tolerant?
Gardenia 'Magnifica' is frost tolerant once established and handles light to moderate frost without damage. Young plants benefit from protection in their first winter through frost-prone areas, and severe inland frost should be avoided. Mature plants in established positions hold their foliage and form through cooler months.
Can Gardenia 'Magnifica' be grown in pots?
Yes. Gardenia 'Magnifica' is excellent in large decorative pots near entrances and courtyards where its perfume can be appreciated up close. Use a quality potting mix designed for acid-loving plants, water regularly through the warmer months, and feed with an acid-loving plant food in spring and summer.
How do I care for Gardenia 'Magnifica'?
Water regularly during the growing season to keep the soil evenly moist but never waterlogged. Feed with an acid-loving plant food in spring and again in mid-summer to support strong flowering. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage dense bushy growth, and mulch annually with an acidic mulch like pine bark.
Why are the leaves turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves on Gardenia 'Magnifica' usually indicate either iron deficiency in alkaline soil, overwatering, or seasonal cool weather. The most common cause is alkaline soil pH. Apply an iron chelate or soil acidifier, ensure drainage is excellent, and mulch with pine bark to maintain the acidic conditions Gardenias need to thrive.
Gardenia augusta ‘Magnifica’ – Magnifica Gardenia

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