A stalwart of the camellia japonica range, Pope John XXIII regularly ranks highly in the landscapers shopping list because of its strong growth and attractively textured pure white flowers.  Really well suited to hedging and screening with vigorous growth and easily pruned for shape, the large deep green leaves are the perfect backdrop to its floral display. Pope John XXIII should certainly be high on the list of white flowered cultivars for landscape use.

Planting & initial care for Pope John XXIII:

Pope John XXIII is suitable for planting in both, full sun or lightly shaded positions.

If planting Pope John XXIII as a hedge or screen we recommend planting with a spacing of between 1.5m to 2.0m apart. (Use the narrower spacing where a dense bushy hedge is required quickly and wider spacings for a superior long term effect).

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 Pope John XXIII 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).

Pope John XXIII 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