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Interesting Facts About the Camellia, the State Flower of Alabama
Interesting Facts About the Camellia, the State Flower of Alabama. In 1959, Alabama adopted the camellia as the state flower. Women living in Butler County spearheaded replacement of the goldenrod flower with the prized camellia, believing the goldenrod to be nothing more than a lowly wildflower unworthy of representing the state. A non-native...
In 1959, Alabama adopted the camellia as the state flower. Women living in Butler County spearheaded replacement of the goldenrod flower with the prized camellia, believing the goldenrod to be nothing more than a lowly wildflower unworthy of representing the state. A non-native state symbol of Alabama, the camellia flower (Camellia japonica) is indigenous to China.
Connotations
Blooming in white and vivid shades of red, pink, orange, yellow and lavender, camellias symbolize the various stages of love. Centuries ago, Koreans displayed camellias at weddings, signifying longevity and faithfulness. The name "camellia" honors Jesuit missionary and botanist Josef George Kamel, who journeyed throughout Asia in the 17th century and documented the medicinal properties of plants.
Growth Habit
Resembling a rose, the camellia flower bursts open, revealing a yellow center and round, overlapping petals. Growing to about 5 inches wide, camellia flowers brighten landscapes across the southeastern United States but belie their beauty by emitting no fragrance. Camellia plants can reach a height of 15 feet and a breadth of about 10 feet, preferring partial shade and acidic, well-drained soil.
Pests and Diseases
Aphids, spider mites, scale insects and weevils can inflict damage to camellias. Fungal diseases such as canker, root rot, gall and leaf spots may harm the plant, and the fungus known as camellia petal blight destroys the blossoms. Removing dead flowers and leaves alleviates the spread of diseases.
