Sasanqua Camellia
‘Classique’ is a compact, low-growing sasanqua camellia.
Plant details
Common name: Sasanqua camellia
Botanic name: Camellia sasanqua ‘Classique’
Description
A prostrate sasanqua camellia which grows slowly to around 60cm (2′) tall and 1m (3′) wide. It flowers abundantly from late summer to winter. The flowers are two-tone pink with a prominent yellow centre. The new growth has a bronze tinge.
Best climate
Camellias will grow in most areas apart from the hot tropics and inland. In areas with alkaline soils (such as around Adelaide), camellias may need to be grown in containers with potting mix for acid loving plants.
Uses
low hedge ground cover grafted standard container plant bonsai
Good points
beautiful pink flowers compact, low growing plant early flowering variety will grow in sun or shade
Downside
‘Classique’ is very slow growing. However this could also be considered a plus, because the plant requires very little pruning.
Care
Camellias prefer a slightly acid, humus rich soil with good drainage. Sasanquas will grow in either full sun or partial shade but do best with protection from hot sun. Fertilise in spring with an all purpose fertiliser such as Dynamic Lifter or a specialist plant food such as camellia and azalea food. Mulch with compost (such as composted autumn leaves) or milled cow manure. Keep well watered, particularly when it is hot and dry.
Cost and availability
Standards (grafted onto ‘Pink Ruffles’ understock) – $160-$200
250mm (10″) pots – around $40
200mm (8″) pots – around $18
140mm (6″) pots – around $10
Prices will vary from state to state. ‘Classique’ is now available in most states of Australia, although it may be difficult to find in Western Australia. Look for it at your local nursery or camellia specialist nursery (such as the ones listed below). If they do not have it in stock they will be able to order it in for you.
Specialist camellia nurseries
NSW
Camellia Grove Nursery
8 Cattai Ridge Road,
Glenorie 2157
Ph: 9652 1200
QLD
Hawkins Gardenway,
1666 Old Cleveland Road,
Chandler, 4155
Phone: (07) 3390 1633
Fax: (07) 3390 1618
SA
Newman’s Nursery
North East Road
Tea Tree Gully, 5091
Phone: (08) 8264 2661
WA
John Cole’s Nursery
Lot 5, Beenyup Road
Banjup, 6164
Phone: (08) 9417 9834
Further information
‘Classique’ was developed by Peter Donnelly of Coachwood Nurseries where our segment was filmed. The nursery is a wholesale nursery but can be contacted by email or at the website for more information and local suppliers:
Coachwood Nurseries Pty Ltd
Somersby, NSW
Website: www.coachwoodnurseries.com.au
Email: [email protected]