Transnokoensis Camellia. This species Camellia produces some of the heaviest flower sets of any species which are in perfect scale with its small leaves of 3/8 - 1 in. long. This would absolutely be one of the best Camellia selections to train as a bonsai. In the monograph on Camellia species in China, COLLECTED SPECIES OF THE GENUS CAMELLIA AN ILLUSTRATED OUTLINE, it reports on this species: "Camellia transnokoensis is characterized by fine, lacy foliage and small white flowers. When it sets an abundance of flower buds, it can make a striking floral display. Hybrids between this and large-flowered species often cluster-flower, and C. transnokoensis is being used in breeding for this purpose." Some have questioned cold-hardiness, but our plants were not been damaged at all by the polar vortex that we suffered in December, 2022, in containers, aboveground and unprotected. Our particular strain produces deep pink flower buds and the first flush of foliage is a deep bronze red. This is a true charmer which I think every Camellia hobbyist will love. The last picture is courtesy of Michael Chelednik.
Zones 7-9
