Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Camellia japonica ‘Annie Wylam’
Annie Wylam Camellia
- Family
- Theaceae
- Height
- Up to 8 feet
- Width
- Up to 8 feet
- Flower color
- Pale pink, peony-form double flowers
- Foliage color
- Dark green, glossy
- Bloom time
- Spring
- Light
- Partial shade to full shade
- Water
- Regular watering, soil should be kept consistently moist
- Maintenance
- Requires regular pruning to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged branches
- Growing zone
- USDA hardiness zones 7 to 10
- Wildlife
- Bees are attracted to the flowers for pollen and nectar, while birds may use the shrub for shelter
About this plant
Camellia japonica 'Annie Wylam' produces medium, peony- to rose-form double flowers from winter into spring, with bright pink outer petals gradually shading to pale pink and creamy white toward the center. Glossy, dark green leaves are leathery and evergreen, forming a handsome backdrop that emphasizes the softly layered blooms. Numerous narrow central petaloids give the flowers a full, intricately textured appearance, while the dense foliage provides rich color and structure throughout the year.
Introduced in the United States in 1960, this cultivar originated with W. Wylam in California and was selected for its distinctive flowers and ornamental character. Its upright, open habit makes it well suited to woodland gardens, mixed shrub borders, foundation plantings, and specimen settings, where the abundant flowers bring welcome color and elegance to the cooler months.
Works well in
Foundation Plantings · Specimen Plants · Woodland Gardens · Shade Gardens
Companion plants
Yew · Astilbe · Ajuga · Sweet box · Anemone · Oregon grape
Design tip
Soft pink flowers against glossy evergreen foliage can bring a graceful focal point to a shady part of the garden. Give this camellia enough room to develop its natural form, then layer smaller shade-loving plants around it to create depth and a welcoming, established feel.
