Species

Camellia japonicaJapanese Camellia

23 other cultivars

shrub

Spring's Promise Camellia

Camellia japonica 'Ice Angels'

Same species

Species

Camellia japonicaJapanese Camellia

23 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

84 inches

Width

60 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8

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 and glossy, dark green leaves. They prefer sheltered locations with acidic, well-drained soil. Part of the Ice Angels series, 'Spring's Promise' is bred for exceptional cold hardiness down to Zone 6. It features single to semi-double reddish-pink flowers that bloom from fall into winter, extending the camellia season.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

A game-changer for northern gardeners, 'Spring's Promise' brings the elegance of camellias to colder climates. Its fall and winter blooms provide a cheerful display against snow or a dormant landscape.

Its relatively compact size makes it suitable for smaller gardens, foundation plantings, or large containers that can be moved to a sheltered spot in the coldest weather. It offers evergreen structure where few broadleaf evergreens thrive.

Provides a late-season nectar source for pollinators in regions where such resources are especially scarce. The dense foliage offers winter cover for small 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

In Zone 6, site in a location protected from winter sun and wind, such as an eastern or northern exposure, to prevent desiccation.

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 heavily in fall in colder zones to protect roots.
Prune immediately after flowering to shape the plant and encourage bushiness.

Don't

Do not plant in an exposed, windy location, especially in colder climates.
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 late in the season, which can inhibit dormancy.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Reliable choice for colder climate gardensBright winter interest specimenFoundation planting in sheltered locations

Companion Plants

Helleborus Galanthus nivalis Daphne odora Rhododendron Heuchera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Spring's Promise Camellia questions

What zones can Spring's Promise Camellia grow in?

Spring's Promise Camellia is hardy in USDA Zones 6–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Spring's Promise Camellia deer resistant?

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

When does Spring's Promise Camellia bloom?

Spring's Promise Camellia typically blooms in late fall through late winter. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Spring's Promise Camellia need full sun?

Spring's Promise Camellia does best in part shade.