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different types of camellia

Discovering the different types of camellia is a delight for any gardener or plant enthusiast in New Zealand. Camellias are cherished for their glossy evergreen leaves and eye-catching flowers, which bloom in a variety of colours and forms. From compact hedges to striking specimen plants, camellias offer versatility and year-round appeal suited to Kiwi gardens. As you explore the world of camellias, you’ll find a wide range of shapes, bloom times, and growth habits, making it easy to select the perfect plant for your landscape.

Camellia 'Setsugekka'

Camellia 'Setsugekka' is a sasanqua variety with large, semi-double, white flowers with wavy, fluted petals and a yellow centre. These contrast nicely with the glossy, dark green leaves as it grows to 3 m tall and 2 m wide. Camellia 'Setsugekka' is commonly grown as a specimen, clipped into a hedge, added to a mixed planting, used in cottage or 'white' gardens, planted around outdoor living areas, or used as a backdrop for smaller plants.

Buy Camellia 'Setsugekka'

From $33.68

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate

Plant type: Shrubs

Height: 3.00 m

Spread: 2.00 m

Flowering time: Autumn, Winter

Garden uses: Containers, Hedging, Living areas, Parks, Pool areas, Screening, Specimen

Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, White

Camellia sasanqua 'Sparkling Burgundy'

Camellia sasanqua 'Sparkling Burgundy' is a striking evergreen shrub known for its deep burgundy new foliage and soft pink blooms that add rich colour to New Zealand gardens. Flowering in autumn and early winter, it provides valuable seasonal interest when many plants are slowing down. Its upright habit and dense growth make it ideal for hedging, screening, or feature planting in modern and traditional landscapes.

Buy Camellia sasanqua 'Sparkling Burgundy'

From $33.68

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate

Plant type: Shrubs

Height: 2.00 m

Spread: 1.50 m

Flowering time: Spring, Winter

Garden uses: Containers, Hedging, Living areas, Parks, Pool areas, Specimen

Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern

Main camellia groups

Camellias are generally divided into two main groups: Camellia japonica and Camellia sasanqua.

Camellia japonica

Known for their bold, upright growth and large, formal blooms, japonica camellias are classic garden favourites. Their flowers appear in late winter to spring, flaunting shades from pure white to rich reds and pinks. Japonica varieties are ideal for sheltered spots in your garden where their dramatic blossoms can take centre stage.

Among the popular japonica types available in New Zealand, Camellia Roma Red stands out. Roma Red displays beautifully formed, deep red flowers, making it a striking addition to hedges or as an accent plant.

Another exceptional japonica is Camellia Takanini, admired for its double blooms with vivid colour and elegant, compact growth habit.

Camellia sasanqua

Sasanqua camellias are prized for their early flowering, often starting in autumn and continuing through early winter. Compared to japonicas, sasanqua types have smaller, delicate flowers, a looser growth habit, and superb tolerance for pruning—ideal for hedges or screens. Their adaptability to sunnier positions and drought makes them perfect for New Zealand gardens.

The versatile Camellia Setsugekka is a notable sasanqua with crisp white, semi-double blooms and glossy foliage. It’s a top choice for hedging or espalier.

For those who favour a splash of deep colour, Camellia sasanqua Sparkling Burgundy offers vibrant, wine-hued flowers and reliable performance—spectacular in both hedges and specimen plantings.

Specialty and hybrid camellias

Hybrid camellias and specialty cultivars bring even more diversity. Newer varieties are bred for improved disease resistance, unique colours, or prolific flowering.

A contemporary favourite is Camellia Paradise Vanessa. This hybrid offers striking blooms and a strong, upright shape perfect for modern garden designs.

Choosing among the different types of camellia

Whether you’re planning a flowering hedge, a colourful border, or a statement specimen, the different types of camellia provide options for every garden style and situation. From the classic elegance of japonica, the reliable performance of sasanqua, to innovative hybrids, camellias promise a season of beauty. Browse our selection to find your perfect match, and enjoy these timeless shrubs in your garden year after year.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.