Plant Profile: Camellia hybrida Winter Series

Ackerman hybrids were created to withstand cold temperatures after a series of harsh winters nearly devastated the collections of Camellia japonica and C. sasanqua at the U.S. National Arboretum. Notably, C. oleifera exhibited no signs of damage, prompting Dr. William Ackerman to cross it with selections of C. sasanqua, C. hiemalis, and C. vernalis. The hybrids that emerged from these interspecific crosses, released in 1991, demonstrated remarkable resilience, showing minimal winter damage even in USDA Zone 6 and in locations where temperatures dipped to -10 °F.

The Winter Series hybrids are fall-blooming camellias that add much-needed visual appeal during the winter months. Their evergreen, glossy green leaves and beautiful flowers, which come in white and various shades of pink, make them excellent choices for landscaping. Many of these hybrids will begin to bloom as early as their second year from root cuttings, producing flowers that remain intact after being cut. They serve well as specimen plants, foundation plantings, or in naturalistic settings along woodland edges. Additionally, these plants exhibit mild resistance to deer damage.

Explore the following cultivars: 'Snow Flurry', 'Winter's Charm', 'Winter's Rose', 'Winter's Hope', 'Polar Ice', 'Winter's Star', 'Winter's Interlude', and 'Winter's Snowman'.

In terms of insect and disease challenges, camellias are vulnerable to various viruses and fungal issues, including dieback, cankers, flower blight, and root rot. Be vigilant for pests such as scales, aphids, planthoppers, and spider mites, which can be particularly problematic for stressed plants.