Camellia reticulata 'Dr Clifford Parks'
15th May 2011
I have always been told that reticulata camellias need a sheltered wall to thrive but I was feeling obstinate
(and I don't have a sheltered wall) so this one was planted at the top of the garden where it will replace
the old windbreak in the fullness if time. It is growing gently, it hasn't been damaged by cold or exposure
and doesn't deserve its fragile reputation. I planted it about three years ago and it hasn't flowered yet
but I am starting to appreciate the Camellia reticulata forms that produce brown and reddish new foliage
(they don't all and the only way to tell is to see them in growth).