Camellia japonica 'April Blues'

Cooler spring weather gives these flowers a bluish-pink, almost purple color, while warmer weather turns them rose-red.  The original plant survived the winter of 1985 - when temperatures dropped to -9°F - and subsequent clones have proven quite resistant to winter cold.  A Camellia Forest introduction.  » Bloom color: Rose red, fades purple in acidic soil » Bloom form: Formal double » Bloom size: Medium, 3 to 4 inches » Bloom period (NC): Mid to late spring (Mar-Apr) » Growth rate, habit: Vigorous, upright/open » Zones: 6a-9 » Features: Cold-hardy