Camellias have flourished at Longwood Gardens since the days of our founder, Pierre S. du Pont, who held a deep admiration for this exquisite plant. Today, our collection continues this legacy, blending heritage with innovation through dedicated research and breeding.
Our Camellia Collection includes species and cultivated selections with the potential to thrive in USDA hardiness Zone 6. Through dedicated research and breeding, we seek to develop cold-hardy hybrids, integrating species such as Camellia azalea, prized for its extended bloom period. In our nursery production greenhouse, approximately 200 selections are under evaluation, advancing our pursuit of novel flowers, longer bloom windows, and greater resilience.
Honoring tradition while shaping the future, this collection serves as a living legacy—preserving germplasm, supporting research, and inspiring generations to come.
Curators: Tony Aiello & Peter Zale
Collection Highlights
Camellia 'Northern Exposure'
Camellia japonica 'April Remembered'
Camellia japonica 'Longwood Centennial'
