Camellia japonica 'Pink Icicle' - Height 100-120cm - 12lt

Camellia japonica ‘Pink Icicle’ is an elegant and eye-catching evergreen shrub, admired for its distinctive foliage and graceful spring flowers. With a naturally upright, bushy habit, it typically grows to around 2.5 to 4 metres over time, making it an excellent choice for a specimen shrub, woodland border, or informal screening in a sheltered garden.

One of its most striking features is the foliage. The leaves are long, narrow, and glossy dark green, with irregular creamy white margins that give the plant year-round visual interest. This variegation brightens shaded areas of the garden and provides an attractive contrast to other evergreen shrubs. New growth often appears slightly softer in tone before hardening and deepening in colour.

Flowering from late winter into mid-spring, ‘Pink Icicle’ produces medium to large, semi-double blooms. The flowers are a soft, clear pink, with gently ruffled petals arranged around a central cluster of golden yellow stamens. Their simple yet refined form complements the bold foliage without overwhelming it. The blooms are produced freely and stand out beautifully against the variegated leaves, adding welcome colour at a time when little else is flowering.

Like other Camellia japonica varieties, ‘Pink Icicle’ thrives in acidic, humus-rich, well-drained soil. It prefers a position in partial shade, sheltered from cold winds and early morning sun, which can scorch frost-affected flowers and leaves. Consistent moisture is important, particularly during dry periods, though the plant should never be left waterlogged.

Maintenance is minimal once established. Pruning is rarely necessary beyond shaping or removing dead or crossing branches, and this is best done after flowering. Mulching with ericaceous compost helps retain moisture and maintain soil acidity.

Overall, Camellia japonica ‘Pink Icicle’ is a sophisticated and reliable shrub, offering a harmonious blend of attractive foliage and soft spring colour, and bringing structure and elegance to the garden throughout the year.