It makes me smile to think that someone who has rented this place (in northern Virginia) in the past started air layering the large camellia at the front corner of the house. There are three branches being propagated, and I haven't checked them yet - but am thinking about doing so before I head back to South Carolina for a week in October. If roots have formed, then I'll take them with me and ask my favorite camellia grower to care for them while I'm in Virginia.
The American Camellia Society describe the process of air layering camellias here.
I'm curious about what camellias I have in my yard here - there are several, and they are decent sized for being this far north. They've probably been here for a good long while. They're definitely japonicas, and if I had to guess, they are older varieties - not the more recent cold hardy introductions. I wouldn't be surprised if they were all the same variety.
I'm glad they're in my yard here.
Sounds like a nice surprise awaits you when they bloom.
Posted by: Janet, The Queen of Seaford | 25 September 2011 at 11:20 PM
I am very surprised they are growing there, but hope they turn out to be something interesting. Knowing you, you will appreciate them no matter what they are.
Posted by: Les | 27 September 2011 at 09:05 PM
Thanks Janet - not even exactly sure when japonicas bloom up here - probably early winter? I'm hoping they are a wonderful older variety. I'm guessing the white alba plena (not sure of the spelling, and not sure why I think this...).
Les, I was surprised too. They are old plants - I'm thinking maybe 20-30 years old at least. I'm definitely curious to see what they are (and hope they have rooted!).
Posted by: Pam | 27 September 2011 at 09:12 PM
Any suggestions on how to identify older camellias? I'm not even sure where to start looking. My huge bush is no doubt a very common variety, but I do love it!
Posted by: Lisa | 25 December 2011 at 11:23 PM
Lisa, do you have any photos of the flowers (showing some of the leaves)? Also, in what part of the country do you live and where does it bloom? I have a good 'camellia' friend who knows a lot about the older varieties - if you have a flower you can post on your blog, do so and let me know - if I can't tell, I'll show it to him. We'll try to help you figure it out!
ps Thanks for stopping by.
Posted by: Pam | 26 December 2011 at 07:26 AM