There is no question that this past winter has been a rough one, no matter what part of Virginia (or many other places for that matter) you live in.  Even here in normally temperate Norfolk we had more snow and more prolonged cold than I can remember.  Thankfully a corner seems to have been turned this past week, and local gardens are slowly waking up.  Crocus and narcissus are blooming, some of the early flowering trees are budding and the forsythia is beginning to flash yellow.  However, the Queen of local gardens and sure sign that winter's days are numbered, has shown her face in the form of Camellia japonica.

Southeastern Virginia is the furthest place north that these gems can grow and still reach their full potential.  Yes I know they will grow in Richmond or even Washington, but not without careful site and cultivar consideration, and even then they will never get to be the shed-sized giants a venerable specimen will here.  In my own neighborhood (where these pictures were taken) there are many fine old specimens, some in lovingly tended gardens and others neglected for years, but thriving nonetheless. 

Most varieties of Camellia japonica are hardy to zone 7b or higher, but there are several that can take it colder.  Their preferred location is in partial shade.  The light under high pines is ideal, as well as the acidified soil found there as well.  They will not be happy in wet soils, preferring even moisture with good drainage, and once established are surprisingly drought tolerant.  There are few serious diseases that affect them, though spider mites and scale can sometimes be a problem, but are easily treated.

One of the best collections of Camellias in the country can be found at the Norfolk Botanical Gardens, which is home to the Hofheimer Camellia Garden.  It is a great place to visit, at any time of the year, but especially now while the Queen is holding court.