Camellia Nuccios Pearl

A compact bush with an upright habit, the Nuccio's Pearl Camellia is an elegant variety with double flowers, of blush pink with carmine edges.

It forms a 1.50m (5 ft) tall bush with a width of 80cm (2 ft). This variety blooms from February to April. It produces 6-7cm (2.8 in) diameter double flowers with overlapping petals, fuchsia pink at the beginning of flowering, becoming pale pink with a deep pink border and finally pink blushed white at the end of flowering.

The rounded leaves of the camellia are dark green, measuring 5 to 8 cm (2 to 3 in) in length and are evergreen. Hardy down to -15°C, this variety is cultivated in partial shade, sheltered from cold winds. It prefers acidic, humus-rich, moist and light soils.

Plant Camellia Nuccio's Pearl in an ericaceous bedl alongside azaleas, skimmia, Japanese quince and heathers. For a colourful spring scene plant a carpet of pink and white tulips at the base, such as the Tulip fleurs de lis Holland Chic, the Single Tulip Hémisphère or the Triumph Tulip Sorbet.

Its compact size also allows it to be grown in a pot. Place it on a partially shaded terrace, alongside a wall, protected from cold and drying winds.