camellia double

What is a Camellia Double?

A camellia double refers to camellias with extra layers of petals, creating flowers that are fuller and more striking than single or semi-double types. These varieties are especially prized for their classic, formal look—think lush petals packed tightly together in symmetrical rosettes. Thanks to their elegant appearance, camellia double blooms are often chosen for flower arrangements as well as garden displays. Their hardy nature means they thrive in most New Zealand gardens, preferring filtered sunlight and well-drained, acidic soil.

Popular Double Camellia Varieties

If you’re considering a camellia double for your garden, there are several standout varieties worth exploring. Camellia Kramers Beauty is famous for its vivid red, fully double blooms and robust growth, making it a wonderful option for hedging or as a feature plant. Another high-impact choice is Camellia Roma Red, which showcases deep, velvety-red double flowers that are sure to draw the eye. For those who love a softer palette, Camellia Paradise Pearl offers delicate, pearly white double blooms that glow against dark foliage. The highly regarded Camellia Takanini features rich crimson double flowers—a favourite for traditional gardens and floral displays.

For versatility and extended blooming, don’t overlook sasanqua types like Camellia sasanqua Sparkling Burgundy. With semi-double to double blooms and a long flowering season, this variety provides colour as well as structure, especially in smaller spaces or informal settings.

Growing Camellia Double in Your New Zealand Garden

Double camellias are remarkably easy to grow and maintain. They thrive best in partially shaded positions—think dappled under tree canopies or sheltered spots away from harsh afternoon sun. Camellia double varieties appreciate consistent moisture but detest waterlogged roots, so aim for soil that drains well while retaining some organic matter. Mulching with leaf litter or bark helps retain moisture and suppresses weeds, while feeding with specialised camellia fertiliser in spring will support healthy growth and abundant blooms.

Pruning after flowering ensures your camellia double stays compact and encourages new growth. If you’re looking to establish a living hedge, plant double camellias 1–1.5 metres apart, and trim lightly each year.

Using Camellia Double for Landscaping

Camellia doubles excel as statement shrubs, privacy screens, or formal hedges. Their dense blooms and evergreen leaves mean you get a garden feature all year round, with standout colour in winter. When paired with other flowering shrubs like azaleas and rhododendrons, camellia double varieties create rich, layered garden designs—beautiful, low-maintenance, and suited to most New Zealand conditions.

Explore our range of camellia double varieties and discover how these classic blooms can transform your garden with enduring style and colour.