Camellia japonica Great Eastern

Common Name: Great Eastern Camellia (Camellia japonica ‘Great Eastern’)

Description:
Great Eastern is a classic, robust evergreen camellia valued for its large, semi-double to double blooms in rich crimson or deep rose-red hues, often featuring a distinctive cluster of smaller inner petals. Flowering occurs from late autumn through to winter and into early spring in Melbourne’s temperate conditions. The glossy, dark green foliage forms a dense, bushy shrub that thrives in part shade or sheltered positions, with morning sun well-tolerated and hot afternoon sun best avoided. It prefers slightly acidic, well-drained soil with regular watering and benefits from light pruning after flowering to maintain shape and encourage healthy growth.

Form:

• Shrub – Medium to Large

Mature Size:

• Height: 3–4 m (occasionally taller over decades)

• Width: 1.5–2.5 m (can spread to 4 m)

Aspect:

• Part Shade

• Morning Sun / Light Shade

• Sheltered from strong afternoon sun

Flowering:

• Flowers in Autumn

• Flowers in Winter

• Flowers in Early Spring

Flower Colour:

• Crimson to deep rose-red blooms

• Semi-double to double form

• Often features a cluster of smaller inner petals in the centre

Key Attributes:

• Evergreen

• Perennial

• Suitable for Pots & Containers

• Suitable as Hedge

• Suitable as Screen

• Suitable as Specimen Plant

• Disease Resistant

• Woodland Garden Friendly

• Medium Growth Rate

• Cold-hardy – tolerates light frost

Toxicity:

• Non-toxic to humans and pets

Companion Plants:

• Rhododendron – similar soil and shade preferences

• Pieris japonica – echoes structure and blossom timing

• Hellebore – underplanting provides winter-spring interest

• Ferns – enhance a woodland garden aesthetic