Camellia japonica 'Doctor King' (Pot Size 29cm) Doctor King Camellia sold by Boma Garden Centre

This elegant evergreen shrub produces large semi-double reddish-pink flowers with prominent golden yellow stamens, flowering prolifically from March to May. The glossy dark green foliage provides year-round interest and the plant develops a strong upright to bushy habit. At maturity over 10-20 years, it reaches 1-2.5 metres in height with a spread of 1-1.5 metres. Hardy to H4, it thrives throughout the UK but requires protection from cold, dry winds and early morning winter sun to prevent frost damage to emerging buds and flowers. Plant in partial or full shade in moist but well-drained, acidic soil. In containers, use ericaceous compost. Water regularly, preferring rainwater, and feed in mid-spring and early summer with sequestered iron fertiliser. Little pruning is needed beyond removing dead branches and deadheading after flowering.