Camellia Japonica 'Bob Hope'

• Originally from Japan and Korea, Camellia Japonica has been cultivated for centuries and adapted beautifully to Australian gardens. The variety 'Bob Hope' was developed for its outstanding flower form and reliable blooming.
• Features large semi-double flowers with bright red petals and prominent yellow centres, creating stunning winter colour. Flowers typically measure 8-10cm across and appear from late winter through early spring.
• Grows as an upright evergreen shrub with glossy, leathery dark green leaves that provide year-round structure. The foliage creates an excellent backdrop for the spectacular winter blooms.
• Beloved by Australian gardeners for providing vibrant colour during the cooler months when most other flowering plants are dormant. Makes excellent cut flowers that last well in vases.

• Water weekly during growing season, reducing to fortnightly in winter unless very dry. Check soil moisture 5cm down before watering and ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot.
• Position in morning sun with afternoon shade, particularly in hot inland areas. Coastal gardens can tolerate more sun exposure throughout the day.
• Plant in acidic, well-draining soil enriched with compost and aged cow manure. Add mulch annually to retain moisture and suppress weeds around the root zone.
• Feed with azalea and camellia fertiliser in early spring after flowering, then again in early autumn. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers which promote leaf growth at expense of flowers.
• Prune lightly in late spring after flowering finishes, removing spent blooms and any dead or crossing branches. Shape plant gradually over several years rather than heavy pruning.
• Maintain consistent soil moisture during bud development in autumn and flowering period in winter. Mulch well to protect roots from temperature fluctuations.

• Provide morning sun with afternoon shade, especially in hot Australian climates. Dappled light under trees creates ideal growing conditions for healthy foliage and abundant blooms.
• Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Increase watering during bud formation in autumn and flowering period in winter.
• Plant in well-draining, slightly acidic soil enriched with compost or aged manure. Mulch around base to retain moisture and keep roots cool during summer heat.
• Protect from strong winds and extreme heat by planting near larger shrubs or structures. Young plants benefit from shade cloth during their first Australian summer.
• Prune lightly after flowering finishes in late spring, removing dead flowers and shaping plant before new growth begins.

• Scale insects can attach to stems and leaves, causing yellowing and weak growth. Treat with horticultural oil or systemic insecticide applied in early morning or evening.
• Leaf yellowing and drop often indicates overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure soil drains well and reduce watering frequency, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings.
• Sooty mould appears as black coating on leaves, usually following aphid or scale infestations. Clean leaves gently with damp cloth and treat underlying pest problem first.
• Bud drop occurs when flower buds fall before opening, typically caused by drought stress, overwatering, or sudden temperature changes. Maintain consistent soil moisture and protect from harsh winds.