Blood of China Camellia | Red Peony Form Winter Bloom

Blood of China Camellia

5 Gallon

$119.00

1/2

Blood of China Camellia

Camellia japonica 'Blood of China'

A rare, fragrant camellia with large, velvety, crimson-red flowers and a soothing, earthy-floral scent.

$119.00

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Bay Area–Based Nursery

We specialize in plants grown and delivered in their original pots and soil.
Because of their size and weight, our plants are not suitable for long-distance shipping and are delivered locally to ensure health and quality.

While delivery is limited to our local service area, we’re happy to support garden design and plant selection remotely.

For local plant professionals, we’re always glad to connect and explore ways to support your customers.

The Blood of China Camellia is a breathtaking and historically significant cultivar, celebrated for its large, peony-form blossoms of intense, velvety crimson-red. This classic japonica produces an abundance of striking, medium-to-large flowers featuring broad, wavy petals with visible deep red veining and a prominent central cluster of golden-yellow stamens mixed with petaloids . Blooming in late winter to early spring (typically January to March in California), its dramatic flowers stand out beautifully against the glossy, dark green foliage . Beyond its ornamental value, this camellia is prized for its unique, deeply soothing fragrance—a blend of floral and earthy notes—and has been traditionally valued in balms and salves for its perceived circulatory and anti-inflammatory properties . An upright, rounded, and slow-growing shrub, it is an elegant and romantic choice for foundation plantings, woodland gardens, and as a specimen in containers or the landscape.

Knowing how we measure the size?

When browsing our plants, you may notice size terms such as Gallon, Multi, or Stand. These describe how a plant is grown, containerized, or structured at the time of sale — not just its height. Understanding these terms will help you choose the right plant for your space and expectations.

🌱 Gallon Size (Container Size)

Gallon refers to the size of the nursery container the plant is currently growing in (e.g. 1 Gallon, 5 Gallon, 15 Gallon).

A larger gallon size generally means:
- A more established root system
- A sturdier plant
- Faster visual impact after planting
Example:
- 5 Gallon: Ideal for residential gardens, easy to handle, good balance of value and maturity
- 15 Gallon: More mature, provides quicker results in the landscape

Note: Gallon size does not guarantee a specific height, as growth varies by species.

🌳 Multi (Multi-Trunk / Multi-Branch Form)

Multi indicates the plant has multiple trunks or main stems growing from the base.

Commonly used for:
- Ornamental trees
- Feature plants
- Japanese maples, olives, crepe myrtles, etc.
Why choose Multi:
- Fuller, more sculptural appearance
- Strong visual presence even at younger ages
- Popular for design-focused landscapes

🌲 Stand (Single-Trunk / Standard Form)

Stand (short for Standard) refers to a single, dominant trunk with a raised or naturally formed canopy.

Commonly used for:
- Shade trees
- Street trees
- Orchard and structural plantings
Why choose Stand:
- Clean, classic tree form
- Easier clearance for walkways and lawns
- Preferred for long-term structure and uniformity

🌿 Choosing the Right Size

If you want instant impact → larger Gallon, Multi form
If you want long-term structure → Stand form
If you want flexibility and value → mid-size Gallon containers

If you’re unsure which size or form fits your project, our team is happy to help you select the best option based on your space, timeline, and design goals.

Foliage & Flowers: Glossy, deep green, oval leaves with finely serrated margins; large, peony-form to semi-double, velvety crimson-red flowers with wavy petals, visible deep red veins, and a showy center of golden-yellow stamens; blooms in late winter to early spring .
Fragrance: A unique, strong, and soothing scent, described as a blend of floral and earthy notes, with a musky or incense-like undertone.
Mature Height: 8-12 ft (can reach 6-15 ft) .
Mature Spread: 6-10 ft .
Growth Rate: Slow .
Hardiness Zones: USDA 7-9 ; Sunset 4-9, 12, 14-24, H1 .
Light Requirement: Partial shade (morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal; protect from hot afternoon sun).
Core Benefits: Large, dramatic crimson-red flowers; unique, soothing fragrance; late winter/early spring bloom; glossy evergreen foliage; traditional medicinal uses; slow-growing and compact.
Best Uses: Specimen plant, foundation plantings, woodland gardens, shaded borders, containers, fragrant gardens, cut flowers (float in bowls).

Q: How strong is the fragrance of 'Blood of China'?
A: The fragrance is notably strong and distinct, which is unusual for camellias. It is best described as a pleasant, soothing blend of floral and earthy notes, with a musky, incense-like quality . It is often compared to a traditional medicinal balm or a high-end perfumery ingredient . The scent is most noticeable on mild, still days.

Q: When does it typically bloom?
A: 'Blood of China' is a late winter to early spring bloomer. In its ideal climate (e.g., California), it typically flowers from January through March. The exact timing can vary slightly depending on your local climate and weather patterns.

Q: How large does this camellia grow?
A: It is a slow-growing, compact shrub, typically reaching 8-12 feet in height and 6-10 feet in spread at maturity . Its manageable size and slow growth make it suitable for smaller gardens and even large containers for many years.

Q: What are the ideal growing conditions?
A: It thrives in partial shade, protected from hot afternoon sun and strong winds. It requires well-drained, acidic soil rich in organic matter. Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulch to keep the shallow roots cool. It is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.

Q: Is it difficult to grow?
A: It is considered a classic garden plant for experienced gardeners in suitable climates. While not extremely difficult, it does have specific needs: acidic soil, consistent moisture, protection from sun and wind, and regular feeding with a fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants (azalea/camellia food). It is not recommended for hot, dry, or alkaline inland climates.

Q: Are there any medicinal uses for this plant?
A: Traditionally, extracts from 'Blood of China' camellia have been used in balms and salves for their perceived ability to improve circulation and reduce inflammation . However, this information is based on historical and anecdotal use. It should not be ingested, and any topical use should be approached with caution and professional guidance. The plant's primary value today is as an outstanding ornamental.