Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Camellia japonica ‘Unryu’
Contorted Camellia
- Family
- Theaceae
- Height
- 6 to 10 feet
- Width
- 4 to 6 feet
- Flower color
- Coral pink
- Foliage color
- Glossy dark green
- Bloom time
- Late winter to early spring
- Light
- Partial shade to full shade
- Water
- Regular
- Maintenance
- Pruning is occasionally required to maintain shape
- Growing zone
- 7 to 9
- Wildlife
- Flowers may attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies to the garden; the dense foliage provides cover and habitat for small birds and other wildlife
About this plant
Camellia japonica 'Unryu' produces small, single deep pink to crimson flowers with prominent golden-yellow stamens in late winter to early spring. Glossy, medium to dark green leaves remain evergreen, providing polished foliage throughout the year. Its defining feature is the unusual branching: at each node, stems change direction to create an intricate zigzag pattern. The contorted branches remain visible within the foliage, giving the shrub sculptural character even when it is not flowering.
Originating on Izu Ōshima, Japan, and registered in 1967, 'Unryu' takes its name from a Japanese expression meaning "dragon in the clouds," inspired by its twisting growth. This distinctive structure makes it especially effective as a specimen, in Asian-inspired gardens, woodland settings, containers, or trained as bonsai, where the unusual branching can remain clearly visible.
Works well in
Foundation Plantings · Specimen Plants · Woodland Gardens · Shade Gardens
Companion plants
Fatsia · Foamflower · Viola · Aucuba · Ferns · Trillium
Design tip
Twisting branches give this camellia enough personality to stand apart from the surrounding garden, even between flowering seasons. Give its unusual silhouette some visual breathing room rather than crowding it, creating a natural focal point that can be appreciated throughout the year.
