Maureen Gilmer
Family
Theaceae
Botanical Name
CAMELLIA japonica 'Betty's Beauty'
Plant Common Name
Betty's Beauty Camellia, Camellia, Japanese Camillia
General Description
The medium to large, semi-double, midseason blooms of 'Betty's Beauty' have white petals with orchid-pink edges. Originating about 1975, this sport of 'Betty Sheffield Supreme' was selected by F. Moore of West Covina, California. It is one of thousands of named selections and hybrids of Camellia japonica, a broadleaf evergreen shrub that has long been grown and treasured in its native East Asia.
This slow-growing, dense, medium to large shrub has ascending, gray-barked branches and oval, medium-green leaves with serrated edges. Each bloom has numerous full-sized petals surrounding a central mass of smaller "petaloids." Clusters of stamens with yellow anthers are intermixed with the petaloids. In frost-free conditions 'Betty's Beauty' flowers from midwinter to early spring. Bloom may commence later in colder sites.
Camellia japonica cultivars prefer some shade but will tolerate full sun once established. The soil should be moist, well-drained, and non-alkaline. Shelter them from harsh winter sun and winds, and apply mulch to keep the roots cool and moist. Regular irrigation and applications of fertilizer promote optimal growth and flowering. Prune lightly (if necessary) in early spring, before next year's flower buds form. This Camellia japonica cultivar is well suited for foundation plantings, mixed borders, cool greenhouses, and large containers. Its waxy flowers are excellent for cutting.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
9 - 1
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USDA Hardiness Zone
7 - 9
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Sunset Zone
H1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
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Plant Type
Broadleaf Evergreen
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Sun Exposure
Partial Sun, Partial Shade
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Height
10'-15' / 3.0m - 4.6m
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Width
5'-10' / 1.5m - 3.0m
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Bloom Time
Early Spring, Winter, Late Winter
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Native To
China, Japan, Korea
Special Characteristics
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Bark Texture
Smooth
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Usage
Container, Cutflower, Feature Plant, Foundation, Hedges, Mixed Border, Topiary / Bonsai / Espalier
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Sharp or Has Thorns
No
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Invasive
No
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Self-Sowing
No
