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Dwarf Camellias?
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Posted by medusa11365 MD7 (My Page) on Mon, Jun 12, 06 at 9:51
| Well, maybe not dwarf, but is anyone familiar with varieties that might stay under 4' tall? I did a little research on the national arboretum site and Monrovia Nursery's site, but would like some personal experiences. I love camellias but have no room at my new house for the 8-10' shrubs I had at my old house. OR, is there a way to prune the giants down to that size without making a hideous mess? |
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RE: Dwarf Camellias?
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I am not familiar with any dwarf camellias as most exceed your height requirements. Sasanquas would be your best choice as they are shorter than other camellia varieties. But in about 10 years, many will be about 4-5 feet high or more. Which sounds ok but...
Camellias have a life span of centuries so it is important to also figure out the plant's height at maturity and not just the 10-year height specified on plant labels.
It reminds of the problem with the Little Gem Magnolia Tree. It was originally advertised as a dwarf magnolia tree but turned out to be a slow growing magnolia tree. Every day on my way to work, I now pass this business park where they planted Little Gem's very close to the building. And they are getting awful close to the ceiling now!
But perhaps you can check up on something that I read about but have not had a chance to inquire further. It is a camellia recently introduced by Nuccio's Nurseries of California. The plant is called Slim 'N Trim and advertised as dwarf. For more info, contact Nuccio's Nurseries... Tom, Jim or Julius at (626) 794-3383. Like I said, I am not sure what that is all about yet but feel free to investigate. Good luck,
Luis |
RE: Dwarf Camellias?
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| I have a compact camellia for over four years and it maintains in compact shape, growing more side way. New branches never show straight upright growth. The blush white flower has highly ruffled petals, medium size. The name is Feathery Touch. |
RE: Dwarf Camellias?
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| Try Nuccio's Nursery in Altadena California. There are several varieties of camellias that are truly dwarf. Twinkle Twinkle, Sasanqua Compacta, Baby Bear just to name a few. They are quite nice. You also may want to do a google search to find other camellia nurseries that ship. |
RE: Dwarf Camellias?
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| You should also learn the fine art of pruning to create and maintain size and forms. Camellia respond very nicely to fine pruning. The 'dwarf' or very slow growing camellia would make this task much easier. Investigate the possibility of pruning classes somewhere. And I mean ARTFUL pruning. Don't look to the landscaping industry for help...I've yet to meet a landscaper who really knew how to prune. |
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