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Key characteristics

Family: Theaceae
Height: Unknown (this particular plant is 10 feet)
Width: Unknown (this particular plant is 10 feet)
Flower color: Reddish-pink with white variegation
Foliage color: Glossy dark green
Bloom time: Late fall into winter
Light: Partial shade
Water: Prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soils
Maintenance: Low; minimal pruning after flowering if necessary
Growing zone: USDA zones 7 to 9
Wildlife: Attracts pollinators

Shrubs

Camellia x vernalis 'Kokinran'

Kokinran Camellia

Camellia x vernalis 'Kokinran' produces small, single flowers from early winter into early spring, displaying pale pink to pinkish white petals irregularly marked with crimson-red stripes, streaks, and flecks. Glossy, dark green leaves are elliptic and evergreen, forming a finely textured backdrop for the colorful blooms. The rounded petals open from a cupped to nearly flat form around a prominent cluster of golden-yellow stamens, while the unpredictable variegation gives individual flowers their own distinctive pattern.

Light

Partial shade

Water

Prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soils

Bloom time

Late fall into winter

Find this plant

Works well in

Foundation Plantings
Specimen Plants
Woodland Gardens
Shade Gardens

Companion plants

Fatsia · Foamflower · Viola · Aucuba · Ferns · Trillium

Design tip

The unusual pink-and-white flowers have enough personality to carry a prominent spot in the garden without much help from surrounding color. Repeating this camellia in a small grouping can make the distinctive pattern feel intentional while creating a memorable winter focal point.