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 One of the true joys of autumn is when sasanqua camellias burst into bloom. They’ve got to be one of the most charming of all garden plants. They're hardy and reliable too, giving you beautiful flowers every year with relatively no attention.
But the great thing is, you can use sasanquas in so many ways. They make a beautiful stand-alone shrub and a very attractive hedge for screening whether you want to clip them or just let them grow naturally. Some people like to train them as topiaries. They thrive in large tubs too and if you like to dabble in bit of bonsai, they make a great choice. Where they are really useful is in narrow beds beside a fence or wall. Just attach some wires along the fence or wall and you can train sasanquas to grow quite flat against the surface, like an espalier.
Look out for one of the relatively new varieties that's about. It's called ‘Classique’; a low growing form that acts like a ground cover. You could try this one in a large hanging basket.
Sasanquas thrive anywhere from full sun to part shade. They don’t like lime or wet feet, but they do appreciate a regular drink to help get them established when they are young. Give them a prune and a feed in spring. It's good to know, if you like keeping camellias clipped, make sure you stop in early January, because that’s when the flower buds start to form.
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