Add a touch of class with Camellias

THE signature flower of Coco Chanel and popular with 20th century French novelist Marcel Proust – who wore a white one in his buttonhole rather than the customary red carnation – the camellia is certainly a classy bloom. Bold yet elegant, sumptuous and romantic, the flowers appear when there is precious little colour around, bringing a splash of joy to the winter garden.

Camellias are evergreen shrubs with bright, glossy, green foliage. They love a shady spot and, despite once being considered tender plants (they were traditionally grown in greenhouses), are hardy enough to be very happy outdoors in the UK climate.

Flower buds may need temporary protection during