Green Guide: ShiShi Gashira

The ShiShi Gashira camellia (Camellia hiemalis) is an outstanding variety that is a Louisiana Super Plants selection for fall 2010. ShiShi Gashira is a slow-growing shrub that can reach 5 feet tall but is more typically around 3 feet.

Gardeners will love the beautiful flowers and long blooming season of this shrub. Dark-pink flowers 2-3 inches across are produced in abundance from October to early January. The colorful display at a time of the year when few trees and shrubs are blooming make this plant an outstanding addition to landscapes where color is desired – and color is always desired.

The compact growth habit and slow rate of growth make ShiShi Gashira an excellent choice for smaller gardens, foundation plantings, containers and basically anywhere a smaller shrub is appropriate.

ShiShi Gashira grows best in part sun or part shade. Choose a location that receives four to six hours of direct sun in the morning and some shade in the afternoon, or find a spot that receives bright, dappled shade throughout the day.

Caring for ShiShi
Good drainage is essential. Don’t plant in areas that are poorly drained or where water settles after a rain – or plant in raised beds if drainage is a problem. Incorporating organic matter into the bed will help improve the soil for better growth. Compost, finely ground composted pine bark and rotted manure are all suitable forms of organic matter.
Camellias are acid-loving plants, and alkaline soils with a pH higher than 7 can limit the plants’ ability to obtain some soil nutrients, especially iron. For pH levels higher than 7, incorporate a soil acidifier such as finely ground sulfur, iron sulfate (copperas) and aluminum sulfate.

Feed ShiShi Gashira camellias in spring as new growth begins in March or early April. Use a fertilizer labeled for acid-loving plants according to the manufacturer’s label directions.

These shrubs need adequate water, especially during hot, dry spells during the summer.

For more: LSU AgCenter, www.lsuagcenter.com/SuperPlants. – Daniel Gill, LSU AgCenter