What Is a Camellia Flower?

The camellia flower is a popular flower due to its colorful petals. It has been used in movies and in gardens as well as worn or placed on funeral caskets. Its distinct look, uses and rich history make the camellia a very interesting flower.

What Is the Camellia?

The camellia plant is native to Asia and has anywhere from 150 to 200 species. It is an evergreen bush that is small but has large showy flowers. The flowers also have seed pods that drop to the ground and produce more plants. Camellias are fast growing plants.

Symbolism

According to Living Art Originals, camellia flowers are the most respected flower in China and can be found in great profusion in the countryside. The Chinese believe camellia flowers symbolize devotion among young lovers. This flower is interpreted as a young man being a lady's protector. Additionally, the camellia is the national flower for Dai Li, an ancient kingdom (see Resources).

States and Cities

Some states and cities have adopted the Camellia flower as either the state or city flower. The state of Alabama lists the camellia as the state flower while Sacramento, California, Slidell, Louisiana, and Newburg, Oregon, honor the camellia as their city's flower.

Uses

The leaves of the camellia plant can be made into tea and certain plants are bred selectively for certain types of teas. As a matter of fact, the camellia plant is used in some of the finest teas made (see Resources). The seeds of the camellia plant are pressed and the juice extracted to make tea oil, which is used a seasoning or cooking oil, mainly in Southern China.

Endangered

Camellias are also widely grown as ornamental plants, however, some of the original species of the camellia are becoming rare in their natural habitat and are on the endangered species list due to habitat destruction.

Popularity

Because the flower is so popular, there are societies strictly for camellias. The American Camellia Society and the International Camellia Society, both devoted to camellias, are just two of the societies that exist. Both of these societies have websites featuring information on types of and care camellias as well as an encyclopedia about camellias. Camellia shows that can be found in certain areas of the country.