Species

Camellia japonicaJapanese Camellia

23 other cultivars

shrub RHS Award

Kramer's Beauty Camellia

Camellia japonica 'Kramer'S Beauty'

Same species

Species

Camellia japonicaJapanese Camellia

23 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

96 inches

Width

96 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moderate to high

Lifespan

Long-lived evergreen shrub

Native To

Japan, China, Korea

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Camellia japonica is a broadleaf evergreen shrub prized for its large, showy flowers in late winter to spring and glossy, dark green leaves. They prefer sheltered locations with acidic, well-drained soil. 'Kramer's Beauty' is renowned for its large, perfectly formed, peony-style blooms of a brilliant turkey red and a delightful fragrance. It is a vigorous, upright grower that flowers profusely.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Offers a multi-sensory experience with its visually stunning, vibrant red blooms and pleasant fragrance. The large, peony-form flowers make a bold statement against the dark, glossy foliage, creating a dramatic focal point.

Its strong, upright growth makes it an excellent choice for a flowering screen or hedge. The fragrant flowers are exceptional for cutting and bringing indoors to enjoy up close.

The flowers provide an important nectar source for early-season pollinators. The dense evergreen canopy offers year-round shelter and potential nesting sites for birds.

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a site with morning sun and afternoon shade, protected from harsh winds.
Amend soil with organic matter to ensure it is acidic and well-draining.
Dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball.
Set the plant so the top of the root ball is slightly above soil level.
Backfill with amended soil, water thoroughly to settle, and create a water well.
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of pine straw or bark mulch.

Pro Tip

Plant high, with the top of the root ball slightly above soil level, to ensure excellent drainage and prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells in summer and fall.
Use an acid-based fertilizer formulated for camellias or azaleas.
Mulch annually to protect roots, conserve moisture, and suppress weeds.
Prune immediately after flowering to shape the plant and encourage bushiness.

Don't

Do not plant in heavy, waterlogged clay soil.
Avoid planting in direct, hot afternoon sun which can scorch leaves.
Never pile mulch directly against the trunk, as it can cause rot.
Do not fertilize in the late fall, as this can encourage tender new growth.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Stunning fragrant garden specimenVibrant informal hedge or screenShowstopper in a large container

Companion Plants

Rhododendron Pieris japonica Hosta Sarcococca Acer palmatum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Kramer's Beauty Camellia questions

What zones can Kramer's Beauty Camellia grow in?

Kramer's Beauty Camellia is hardy in USDA Zones 7–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Kramer's Beauty Camellia deer resistant?

Yes — Kramer's Beauty Camellia is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Kramer's Beauty Camellia bloom?

Kramer's Beauty Camellia typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Kramer's Beauty Camellia need full sun?

Kramer's Beauty Camellia does best in part shade.