SafePlants

Camellia vernalis 'Yuletide'

Known commonly as Vernal Camellia or Yuletide Camellia, Camellia vernalis 'Yuletide' is a beautiful camellia hybrid that brings color to the winter garden.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that Camellias, in general, can be grown in containers, suggesting they may be present in home environments.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Camellia x vernalis 'Yuletide'
• Family: Theaceae
• Common Names: Vernal Camellia, Yuletide Camellia
• Synonyms or related species mentioned: Camellia japonica, Camellia sasanqua, Camellia reticulata, Camellia hiemalis, Camellia oleifera, Camellia kissi, Camellia tsaii.
• The text indicates Camellia vernalis is a hybrid, specifically noted as Camellia japonica x Camellia sasanqua in one instance.

Distribution and Habitat

• The text suggests it is commonly cultivated.
• References growing camellias in South Carolina and mentions its presence in gardens across the United States, Australia, and New Zealand.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Camellia vernalis 'Yuletide' features single, brilliant red flowers with prominent yellow stamens.
• The bush is described as upright.
• Generally flowers later than most sasanquas.
• Other cultivars like 'Egao' have delicate pink flowers.
• 'Egao Corkscrew' has a curled and twisted form.

Ecological Role

• The plant is used as a parent in a number of C. sasanqua hybrids.

Quirky Facts

• The cultivar name 'Yuletide' refers to its flowering time around Christmas, making it a popular festive gift.
• The Japanese name "egao" translates to "smile."

Further Information

• The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) is mentioned as a source of information.
• The Plant List, IPNI, Australian Plant Name Index, and NYBG Virtual Herbarium are listed as search resources.
• Discover Life is mentioned as a resource for biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution information.