Yuletide Camellia - 3 Gallon

Yuletide Camellia - Winter Blooming Evergreen Flowering Shrub | 3-4 ft, Single Plant

Enjoy spectacular winter blooms when most plants are dormant with this cold-hardy, evergreen camellia that flowers from fall through winter. The Yuletide Camellia is a compact, slow-growing evergreen shrub that delivers exceptional seasonal interest with bright red single flowers adorned with golden yellow centers. This exceptional winter-flowering shrub has become a landscape designer's favorite for adding vibrant color during the dormant season when few other plants are blooming. With its reliable winter flowering period from October through February and remarkable cold tolerance for a camellia, the Yuletide Camellia transforms dreary winter landscapes into colorful garden showcases. The dense, glossy evergreen foliage and manageable 6-8 foot mature size create perfect foundation plantings and specimen features while providing months of spectacular winter blooms. Unlike traditional camellias that bloom in spring, these winter-flowering evergreens provide bright seasonal color and glossy foliage interest that actually peaks during the coldest months when garden color is most needed.

Why You'll Love the Yuletide Camellia

Spectacular Winter Blooms: Bright red single flowers with golden centers bloom continuously from fall through winter, making this the perfect choice for adding vibrant color during the dormant season when most landscapes lack floral interest.

Cold-Hardy Camellia Performance: Plant 4-6 feet apart for foundation use and they provide reliable winter color even in challenging climates. These winter-flowering shrubs have proven cold tolerance superior to most camellia varieties.

Glossy Evergreen Foliage: Thrives in USDA zones 7-9 with excellent shade tolerance and year-round evergreen structure. Once established, these shrubs demonstrate good drought resistance and maintain attractive foliage in all seasons.

Low-Maintenance Winter Interest: A perfect seasonal landscaping choice due to its natural compact growth habit requiring minimal pruning and excellent disease resistance - ideal for gardeners wanting reliable winter color with minimal care requirements.

Yuletide Camellia Details

• Botanical Name: Camellia sasanqua 'Yuletide'
• Type: Evergreen flowering shrub
• Mature Size: 6–8 ft tall × 4–6 ft wide
• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate — up to 6–12 inches per year
• Light: Partial shade to filtered sun
• Soil: Well-drained, acidic; prefers organic-rich soil
• Water: Moderate; consistent moisture preferred
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 7, 8, 9

Growing Conditions

Soil Adaptability: Prefers well-draining, acidic soil (pH 5.5-6.5) enriched with organic matter such as compost or leaf mold. However, tolerates various soil types with good drainage, while alkaline or poorly-draining soils can lead to root problems and yellowing foliage.

Light Requirements: Performs best in partial shade to filtered sunlight, especially protection from harsh afternoon sun. Optimal placement in locations receiving morning sun with afternoon shade results in the most abundant flowering and healthiest foliage.

Hardiness: USDA zones 7-9, making it suitable for mild winter climates across the southeastern United States and protected locations in zone 6 with proper care.

Care Instructions

Watering: Maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during establishment and flowering periods. Water deeply when top inch of soil feels dry, but avoid waterlogged conditions that can cause root rot.

Pruning: Prune lightly immediately after flowering (late winter/early spring) to maintain shape. Avoid heavy pruning as camellias are naturally slow-growing and don't recover quickly from severe cutting.

Fertilizing: Apply acid-loving plant fertilizer in early spring after flowering. Use organic mulch around the base to maintain soil acidity and moisture retention while protecting shallow roots.

Landscaping Uses

Versatile Applications: Yuletide Camellia's versatility makes it suitable for: foundation plantings, woodland gardens, specimen plantings, containers, shade gardens, and mixed evergreen borders.

Winter Garden Excellence: Creates stunning winter focal points that provide bright seasonal color when most landscapes are dormant, unlike spring-blooming shrubs that offer no winter interest during the months when garden color is most appreciated.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far apart should I plant Yuletide Camellias for foundation plantings? Plant 4-6 feet apart for foundation or specimen use, allowing room for mature spread. Closer spacing is not recommended due to their slow growth rate and preference for good air circulation.

When does Yuletide Camellia bloom and how cold-hardy is it? Blooming typically occurs from October through February, peaking during December and January. It's more cold-hardy than most camellias, tolerating temperatures down to 10-15°F once established.

What are the soil and light requirements for Yuletide Camellia? Prefers partial shade with morning sun, and acidic, well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. Avoid full sun locations and alkaline soils which can cause stress and poor performance.