Plants have loads of personality, but what shrub for the urban landscape could possibly have more charm than the camellias? While leaves of deciduous plants swirl in the crisp breeze and marigold blossoms fade, this broad-leaved evergreen takes a prominent stand with glossy foliage and lovely flowers. Camellias have unique character that will be most striking over the next few months.

The camellia “Tom Knudsen” stands upright like a palace guard. The formal structure of this camellia is peppered in tight buds offering not a hint of the deep red flower that will burst into color with the coming of winter. Yet companion “Snow Flurry” is already tossing a profusion of white blossoms from more delicate spreading branches. Planted side-by-side, the comparison is striking and draws attention to the autumn landscape.

Camellias have been cultivated for over 2,000 years. Native to Asia, the plant didn’t make an appearance in this country until the late-1700s and was grown only in conservatories at that time. Now more than two centuries later, cold, hardy camellias are commonly grown outdoors in the mid-Atlantic region and are thought to be an icon of parts further south.

Planting more than one species of this ornamental ensures multi-season color. Whether your search focuses on the perfect camellia for fall or the veritable rose of winter, plant profiles are readily available. So brew a cup of dried leaves from the camellia tea plant and take the time to explore online.

The Japanese camellia is the species most frequently grown, representing the widest range in flower color, form and size. Blooming from winter to early spring, the “common camellia” is best planted in partial shade in a protected area. Flowers are produced on wood from the past season, so prune soon after blooms begin to drop.

The versatile sasanqua sports smaller, darker green leaves with a finer texture. This camellia is more sun-tolerant and faster growing. It begins flowering in autumn — continuing into winter — when few other plants perform. Flowers are produced on current season wood.

Popular garden types of camellias are also distinguished by floral form, ranging from simple to complex styles. Cross cultivation has resulted in a multitude of hybrids designed to express diverse garden styles. Some even have fragrance.

Camellias are propagated through softwood cuttings, air layering or seeds. They are best planted in autumn to allow roots to establish before summer’s heat arrives. These shrubs prefer fertile, well-drained soils high in organic matter with a slightly acidic pH.

Charmed by the camellia’s spell but lacking garden space? Consider an adventure to the Norfolk Botanical Gardens to encounter more than 1,000 different types of camellias. There you are sure to find a match for your own character!

Kristi Hendricks is a graduate of Shepherd College and West Virginia University and a Master Gardener with the Virginia Cooperative Extension. She can be reached at belowthejames@yahoo.com.