Discover the beauty of the Japanese Camellia, also known as Camellia japonica or “rose of winter”. A flowering shrub or small tree, it is native to Japan, Korea, and China and is the official state flower of Alabama. With shiny dark green leaves, the flowers of this plant can come in red, white, or pink shades, sometimes with stripes or specks. Camellia japonica wants to grow in a rich, acid soil with part shade or full sun and can be cultivated as both a shrub or small tree. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, an edible oil called “tsubaki oil” can be obtained from the seeds. Explore the thousands of cultivars available and bring the beauty of this graceful plant into your home garden.