Overview
Camellia x williamsii 'Charles Colbert' is a bushy shrubs in the genus Camellia, part of the Theaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 4-8 metres tall and 2.5-4 metres wide, reaching full size in around 10-20 years. Camellia x williamsii 'Charles Colbert' grows best in partial shade, and tolerates most soils and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens and cottage and informal garden.
About
Camellia x williamsii 'Charles Colbert' is an upright evergreen shrub that can reach a height of up to 5 meters. It features a dense growth habit and has glossy, dark green leaves that are ovate in shape with finely serrated margins. In mid-spring, it produces semi-double blooms that start as rose pink and gradually fade to a lighter shade of pink, displaying slightly incurved petals.
About the genus
Camellia consists of evergreen shrubs featuring smooth, oval leaves that are glossy and leathery. These plants produce prominent flowers, which may appear either singly or in clusters, primarily in the early part of the year.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Camellia
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Camellia x williamsii 'Charles Colbert' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 4-8 metres
- Spread
- 2.5-4 metres
- Time to full height
- 10-20 years
- Suggested uses
- City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Camellia x williamsii 'Charles Colbert'
- Cultivation
- Prefers acidic soil with plenty of organic matter and good drainage. Position in light shade, and shelter from cold, dry winds and early morning sun, as buds and flowers may be damaged by cold winds and late frosts. See camellia cultivation for more detailed advice
- Pruning
- Pruning group 8 (evergreens), after flowering
- Propagation
- Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer, or by grafting in late winter
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to aphids, scale insects and vine weevils
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to honey fungus, phytophthora root rot, camellia gall, camellia leaf blight, and camellia yellow mottle virus. Flowers may be infected by camellia petal blight
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Camellia x williamsii 'Charles Colbert'?
Prefers acidic soil with plenty of organic matter and good drainage. Position in light shade, and shelter from cold, dry winds and early morning sun, as buds and flowers may be damaged by cold winds and late frosts. See camellia cultivation for more detailed advice.
Where is the best place to plant Camellia x williamsii 'Charles Colbert'?
Camellia x williamsii 'Charles Colbert' prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Camellia x williamsii 'Charles Colbert' need?
Camellia x williamsii 'Charles Colbert' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including clay, loam and sand. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.
How do I prune Camellia x williamsii 'Charles Colbert'?
Pruning group 8 (evergreens), after flowering.
How big does Camellia x williamsii 'Charles Colbert' grow?
Camellia x williamsii 'Charles Colbert' reaches a height of 4-8 metres and a spread of 2.5-4 metres. It takes around 10-20 years to reach full size.
Is Camellia x williamsii 'Charles Colbert' hardy in the UK?
Camellia x williamsii 'Charles Colbert' has a UK hardiness rating of H5.
How do I propagate Camellia x williamsii 'Charles Colbert'?
Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer, or by grafting in late winter.