Camellia Japonica Royal Velvet - 20cm Pot

Camellia japonica ‘Royal Velvet’ is a striking evergreen shrub admired for its luxurious deep velvet-red flowers and glossy dark green foliage. A compact yet vigorous grower, this elegant variety produces large semi-double blooms from late winter into early spring, bringing rich colour and classic beauty to the garden. Its upright habit makes it an excellent choice for feature planting, hedging, screening or growing in large containers.

The impressive blooms feature velvety dark red petals surrounding prominent golden-yellow stamens, creating a dramatic contrast that makes each flower stand out. Flowering through the cooler months, 'Royal Velvet' provides a spectacular display when many other plants are dormant. The dense, glossy evergreen foliage remains attractive throughout the year, adding structure and year-round appeal.

With its naturally upright growth and manageable size, 'Royal Velvet' is equally suited to formal gardens, cottage gardens and contemporary landscapes. It also performs beautifully in decorative pots, making it ideal for courtyards, patios and entrances.

Mature size: approximately 4 metres high × 2 metres wide

Care & Growing Tips
Plant in a part shade position or where it receives morning sun and protection from harsh afternoon sun. In Melbourne, a sheltered location protected from drying winds will encourage the best flowering display and help prevent leaf scorch.

Prefers fertile, slightly acidic, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. If planting into Melbourne's heavier clay soils, improve drainage with compost before planting.

Water regularly during establishment and maintain consistent soil moisture during Melbourne's dry summers. Camellias dislike prolonged dry conditions, particularly while flower buds are developing.

Feed in spring after flowering with a quality fertiliser formulated for camellias or other acid-loving plants to encourage healthy growth and abundant flowering.

Apply a generous layer of organic mulch each spring to conserve moisture, suppress weeds and help keep the root zone cool, ensuring mulch is kept clear of the trunk.

Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged growth. Avoid heavy pruning later in the season, as developing flower buds may be removed.

Generally easy to grow, although occasional aphids, spider mites or scale insects may appear and can be treated if required.

Ideal for
– Feature flowering shrubs
– Evergreen hedging and screening
– Woodland and shade gardens
– Large pots and containers
– Courtyards and patios
– Winter and spring flowering displays
– Traditional, cottage and contemporary gardens