Camellia Japonica Donna Hertzilia - 20cm Pot

Camellia hybrid ‘Donna Hertzilia de Freitas Magalhaes’ is a remarkable camellia admired not only for its memorable name but also for its unusual flower colour and reliable garden performance. This distinctive hybrid produces elegant anemone-form blooms that add colour and character to the garden throughout the camellia flowering season. A favourite among collectors, it offers something a little different from traditional red camellia varieties.

The medium-sized flowers are typically rich red, with beautifully layered petals surrounding a textured central cluster. One of the most fascinating features of this variety is its ability to develop deeper purple tones when grown in heavier clay or shale-based soils. In some conditions, the blooms can even display subtle bluish-purple hues, making each plant slightly unique depending on its growing environment. The flowers are beautifully complemented by glossy dark green evergreen foliage that remains attractive year-round.

‘Donna Hertzilia de Freitas Magalhaes’ develops into a dense, upright shrub that works well as a feature plant, informal hedge or part of a camellia collection. Its evergreen foliage provides structure and screening throughout the year, while the unusual flowers make it a talking point when in bloom. It is equally suited to garden beds and large containers in sheltered positions.

Mature size: approximately 2.5–4 metres high × 2–3 metres wide.

Care & Growing Tips
Plant Camellia japonica ‘Donna Hertzilia’ in a position with morning sun and afternoon shade, or filtered light throughout the day. Protection from strong winds will help preserve flowers and foliage.

Prefers fertile, slightly acidic, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter.

Water regularly during establishment and maintain consistent soil moisture during dry periods. Reduce watering frequency once established but avoid allowing the soil to dry out completely.

Apply a quality fertiliser suitable for camellias and flowering shrubs in spring after flowering, with a second application in mid to late summer if required.

Mulch with approximately 5cm of quality organic mulch to help retain moisture, suppress weeds and improve soil health, keeping mulch clear of the trunk.

Prune lightly after flowering or in early spring to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.

Frost tolerant once established and well suited to cool and temperate Australian gardens.

Ideal for
– Feature flowering shrubs
– Evergreen hedging and screening
– Camellia collections
– Woodland and shade gardens
– Pots and container growing
– Winter and spring colour displays