If camellias could talk, they'd probably say, "Look at me!" And, honestly, who could blame them?
These Gulf Coast divas are the full package: evergreen foliage, stunning blooms and a touch of tea-drinking sophistication. Whether they're gracing your garden, jazzing up your tea cup or making your neighbors jealous, camellias know how to work a crowd.
Growing them might sound like a fancy horticultural adventure, but trust me — it's easier than you think. So, grab your gardening gloves, maybe a cup of tea (made from their cousin Camellia sinensis, of course), and let's dive into the fabulous world of Camellias, our state flower.
Camellias first arrived in Baldwin County in the 1800s, traveling all the way from Asia like true jet-setters. The Gulf Coast's mild winters, humid air and acidic soil were the perfect recipe for these beauties to thrive.
By the 1900s, camellias had taken over local gardens. Folks in Fairhope and Daphne were planting them left and right, showing them off in garden shows and even forming camellia clubs. Baldwin County fell head over heels for these stunning shrubs, and the rest, as they say, is history.
The original location of Cooper Farm garden center was an old camellia nursery called Sute Flowers that began in the 1950s specializing in camellia breeding and propagation with much of the original camellia trees still on the property to admire each winter.
In 1959, Alabama made it official by crowning the camellia as the state flower. The original Alabama state flower was the golden rod.
Many people don't realize that Camellia sinensis, a relative of ornamental camellias, is the source of all traditional teas, including green, black, white and oolong tea. The flowers to these are white with yellow long stamens. Here's how tea is made:
Harvesting: Young leaves and buds are picked by hand or machine.
Processing: Leaves are subjected to different treatments to produce various teas:
Baldwin County gardens are home to two main camellia types, each with its own vibe:
Blooms: Winter to early spring (December-March).
Personality: Bold and glamorous, like the diva of your garden.
Flowers: Big, showy and available in a rainbow of colors.
Blooms: Fall to early winter (October-December).
Personality: Effortlessly chic with a more relaxed vibe.
Flowers: Smaller, delicate and perfect for hedges or ground covers.
Japonicas have thicker leaves and larger flowers that say, "Look at me!"
Sasanquas are more subtle, with finer smaller eaves and smaller blooms. These are commonly called Thanksgiving camellias because of their bloom time being around Thanksgiving day.
Camellias are evergreen, which means they're always dressed to impress — even in the dead of winter. Their glossy green leaves provide a lush backdrop year-round, and when their flowers bloom, it's like your garden is throwing a party.
Here's what they need to thrive in Baldwin County:
Location, location, location: Morning sun and afternoon shade keep them happy. (Too much sun = wilty drama queen.)
Soil love: Acidic, well-drained soil is their jam.
Hydration station: Water them regularly, but don't let them get soggy.
Mulch it up: A layer of mulch keeps them cool and hydrated.
Fertilizer TLC: Feed them in spring and midsummer, but don't overdo it.
Yep, camellias are edible — talk about multi-talented!
Leaves: While C. sinensis is the tea superstar, you can steep young leaves from ornamental camellias for a mild herbal tea.
Flowers: Camellia petals can add a pop of color to salads, desserts or cocktails. Try candying them for a sweet, Instagram-worthy treat!
Camellias are more than just a pretty face; they're part of Baldwin County's story. Whether you're strolling through historic gardens, sipping tea on your porch or planting one in your backyard, these plants connect us to the past while brightening our present.
So, the next time you see a camellia, give it a little nod of appreciation. It's been working hard to keep Baldwin County beautiful for over a century, and it's not stopping anytime soon.
