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Earlier this afternoon, my husband came in from outside and handed me the most ruffled ruby colored bloom I have ever seen. Thrilled to announce that our tree was blooming, I told him that not only were we the proud owners of a brilliant camellia tree, but that I'd been eyeing the buds from our sun room's windows for quite some time.
We bought our home a few months back and are eagerly looking forward to see what green wonders will be sprouting from our yard; the camellia is the star of the show, for now.
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According to the American Camellia Society, there are over 250 known species to the genus Camellia. And, according to The Southeastern Camellia Society, Savannah might be able to boast about having the most:
"Savannah's reputation as a garden city began with James Edward Oglethorpe, who in the 1730's laid out a city plan of squares and parks many of which remain today. Although many visitors believe that camellias are native to this area, they are originally from Japan and China. The first species of camellia to enter the United States was the tea plant, camellia sinensis. Seeds were first sent to Savannah in 1744 to be planted in Trustee's Garden, an experimental garden in Oglethorpe's original plans. Camellia japonica did not make it to the southern United States until around the 1830's when bushes were planted at plantations in the Charleston, South Carolina area. "
The above information (which I too have just learned) might explain my illustration at the very top: it's a still life of a camellia I drew last year while living and teaching on Geoje Island in South Korea. The bushes were all over the island and their vivid colors were a bright addition to the ridiculously long and dreary winter.
Although the author mentioned that the Camellia originated in Japan and China, I'm certain my Korean friends would appreciate the addition.
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