Camellia japonica 'Nuccio's Cameo' - Height 50-60cm - 12lt

Camellia japonica ‘Nuccio’s Cameo’ is a refined and elegant evergreen shrub, prized for its exquisite blooms and polished appearance. It forms a dense, upright habit, typically reaching around 2 to 3 metres in height over time, making it well suited to borders, woodland gardens, or as a striking specimen plant.

The flowers are the true highlight. Appearing from late winter into early spring, they are medium to large in size and beautifully formal in structure. Each bloom is composed of neatly layered petals, opening from soft blush-pink buds into creamy white flowers delicately edged and flushed with rose pink. This subtle two-tone effect gives the cultivar its “cameo” quality, lending an air of quiet sophistication rather than bold showiness. The flowers are long-lasting and hold their shape well, even in cool weather.

The foliage provides year-round interest. Leaves are glossy, deep green, and leathery, creating an attractive backdrop to the pale flowers and ensuring the plant remains visually appealing long after flowering has finished. New growth often emerges with a lighter green sheen before darkening as it matures.

Like most camellias, ‘Nuccio’s Cameo’ prefers acidic, well-drained soil and a sheltered position away from cold, drying winds and early morning sun, which can damage frost-touched blooms. It thrives best in partial shade, particularly in gardens with dappled light. Once established, it is relatively low maintenance, requiring only light pruning to maintain shape and remove spent flowers.

Overall, Camellia japonica ‘Nuccio’s Cameo’ is a timeless and graceful plant, valued for its subtle colouring, tidy habit, and ability to bring gentle beauty to the garden at a time of year when little else is in flower.