| 'Catherine Cathcart' is shown in the Camellia Nomenclature Supplement (1996) which lists many historical varieties that, generally speaking, are no longer in substantial commercial distribution. You may still find them in old gardens, and occasionally at a camellia specialty nursery. The Supplement indicates the bloom was imported from Europe to Magnolia Gardens (Charleston S.C.) in the 1940's, where it was then distributed. It produces a medium sized formal-double bloom that is colored pink with white mottled splotches, blooming mid to late season (March). Some unofficial names for it were 'Leila,' 'Lord Darby,' and 'San Antonio." I also have found a catalogue description (similar to the above) along with a color image in the book "Camellias" by G.G. Gerbing (1945 ed.) who back then carried it at his nursery in Fernandina (Amelia Island) Florida. It evidently was very popular at one time. The picture reminds me of 'Pink Perfection' with white mottling. Send me an e-mail and I will scan and e-mail it to you if you are interested. If you have this one, you are very lucky. Hope this helps! |
