Camellia Anticipation

The Camellia (x) williamsii 'Anticipation' is one of the most popular varieties among this hybrid. Its large double peony-like flowers are spectacular with their intense pink color that stands out particularly well against the dark foliage, which is a beautiful glossy dark green. The flowering period lasts for 3 to 4 months, sometimes even longer, bringing cheerfulness to the garden in late winter and spring. Perfect for creating a Japanese atmosphere in a flower bed, this Camellia can also be easily grown in containers. It thrives in moist soil, preferably acidic, and in partial shade.

The Camellia belongs to the small family of Theaceae, of which it is the most well-known representative along with the tea plant (Camellia sinensis) and all ornamental species. Some other genera in the family are appreciated by collectors, such as Franklinia or Stewartia, whose flowers resemble single Camellias. Camellia x williamsii is a hybrid resulting from the cross-breeding between the widely spread Camellia japonica and the more confidential C. saluenensis, a Chinese species native to Yunnan.
Anticipation is a variety of this group of hybrids obtained as early as 1962 in New Zealand, and its popularity has never waned since, despite its age. It forms a bush with a rather narrow, slightly fastigiate habit, and relatively slow growth. In 10 years of cultivation, it will reach a height of about 1.20 m and a width of 70 cm, and at maturity, 2 m in height and 1.50 m in width. Its evergreen foliage consists of elliptical leaves, 7.5 cm long and 3.8 cm wide, leathery, finely toothed, dark green and glossy on the upper surface. This dark vegetation is particularly suitable for highlighting the splendid intense pink flowering, which contrasts very pleasantly against the foliage. From February, sometimes earlier depending on the year, Anticipation is covered with large double peony-like flowers, which can measure up to 12 cm in diameter. The dense and slightly crinkled petals give this bush a wonderfully romantic charm, which lasts until April. They are so numerous that they often hide the stamens of the flower.
While this bush is hardy down to -15°C in the ground, its flowering may be compromised by snow, freezing wind, and temperatures below -5°C, especially if grown in a pot. This is why it particularly appreciates mild and humid climates like that of Brittany.

The Camellia wilsonii 'Anticipation' thrives best in coastal regions of the west, in humus-bearing and well-drained soil. It will be at home in a mixed flower bed of acidophilous plants, on the edge of trees. Plant alongside it the Acer palmatum Phoenix, a Japanese Maple with ever-changing foliage throughout the year, ranging from red to pink, and orange, before revealing in winter a striking young blood-red branching. The Azalea luteum narcissiflora with its star-shaped yellow flowers in April-May will also be good company, as well as the Enkianthus campanulatus var. palibinii. This less common bush blooms with delightful small pink bell-shaped flowers at the same time. The very romantic Magnolia sieboldii is a small tree whose white flowers with purple hearts extend the flowering period of 'Anticipation' from May to July. And to flower your summer, incorporate some Hydrangeas into your flower bed, essential for extending the flowering season until autumn.

Note: unlike rhododendrons, camellias tolerate container cultivation very well, including varieties that are not dwarf. Their compact tufted root system is content with a relatively small space, as long as it is regularly nourished and watered (with non-calcareous water).