A show bench winning flower on an attractive shrub, Desire is a worthwhile addition to any Camellia collection. An upright bushy shrub with deep green foliage accentuates the large formal flowers that have a deep pink margin and creamy white centre. Desire is a medium grower that may take a little longer to form a dense bush but the result is well worth the wait.

Planting & initial care for Desire:

Desire is suitable for planting in both, full sun or lightly shaded positions.

If planting Desire as a hedge or screen we recommend planting with a spacing of between 1.2m to 1.8m apart

Planting holes should be at least double the width and slightly deeper than the plant container and include a blend of composted material and existing topsoil. Raised beds are recommended for heavy clay soils.

Plant Desire so that the top of the potting mix is level with the finished soil line, firm down soil gently around the plant for stability and water in well.

Mulch the soil surface with about 5cm of quality mulch ensuring the mulch is not mounded against the plants trunk. (Place a very thin layer of mulch adjacent to the trunk and increase to maximum depth (5cm) as it radiates away from the root zone).

Desire will take several months and up to a year to establish in its new home depending on the time of year it is planted. Ensure the soil is kept moist but not overwatered. Watering can be reduced as the plant establishes.

Prune in early spring for shape as required (later pruning will reduce Autumn flowering).

Feed in spring with a quality general purpose fertiliser, this can be replenished in mid to late Summer as needed.

For more information go to our full PLANTING AND CARE GUIDE