Camellias: The Gardener's Encyclopedia [Hardcover]

Jennifer Trehane (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: November 15, 2007

For decades, large swathes of the United States and Europe believed camellias to be altogther too tender for garden use, their exquisite blooms in pure colors giving the impression that they were too rarified and delicate to tangle with. Today, few gardens are without their share of camellias.

This encyclopedia is a comprehensive, one-stop reference for camellia enthusiasts at all levels. It provides information on how to grow and care for camellias as well as detailed descriptions of a handpicked selection of over 600 garden-worthy species and cultivars. The highly informed and truly international plant selection includes classic favorites as well as the latest introductions from around the world. Significant coverage is given to cold-hardy cultivars and there are chapters devoted to establishing camellias in the garden and growing them successfully in containers.

Over 800 enticing images will entice all gardeners to accommodate more of these exquisite plants.

Editorial Reviews

Review

For any gardener interested in growing camellias, this book would be an invaluable asset. For any gardener who enjoys beautiful photos, this book will be a coffee table favorite. -- Angela England Suite101.com 20080107 A beautiful new book ... chockablock with gorgeous photographs of hundreds of varieties, the book details characteristics of the flowering bushes from all over the world. -- Mary Tutwiler Lafayette Independent Weekly 20080213 A well-crafted, authoritative book, superbly illustrated. ... This is an important work that will stand the test of time both as a bedside bible for the camellia fancier and a finely illustrated book for plant lovers in general. -- John Gallagher The Garden 20080201

Book Description

The final word on camellias for decades to come.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Hardcover: 380 pages
• Publisher: Timber Press (November 15, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0881928488
• ISBN-13: 978-0881928488
• Product Dimensions: 11.1 x 8.7 x 1.3 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3.6 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #307,685 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #50 in Books > Education & Reference > Encyclopedias > Gardening

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

18 of 18 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A beautiful and useful reference source for camellia lovers, November 20, 2007

By 

W. Oliver (Alabama) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)    (TOP 1000 REVIEWER)    (REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Camellias: The Gardener's Encyclopedia (Hardcover)

This is a must-have reference source for the camellia lover. The author, a director of the International Camellia Society and nursery owner, covers the history of this exquisite flower through various countries before dispensing valuable horticultural advice. Individual chapters cover the various camellia species and cultivars - sasanqua, japonica, reticulata, Williamsii hybrids and a selection of other hybrids. Over 600 camellias are profiled with information as to plant origin, leaf and flower characteristics and growth habit. Each one profiled is accompanied by a stunning photograph. Other chapters cover propagation techniques, pests and diseases and the showing of camellias. The chapter on propogation is really impressive showcasing numerous techniques involving grafting, cuttings, layering, seeds, etc. The photographs, most of them taken by the author, are astoundingly beautiful. Highly recommended.

12 of 12 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A Camellia Enthusiast's Must Have, March 10, 2008

By 

Karen Harrison "camellia lover" (Los Angeles CA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Camellias: The Gardener's Encyclopedia (Hardcover)

This is an excellent and informative resource for all camellia enthusiasts. Jennifer has compiled a lot of very useful information. She has really done her homework. Her photos are sharp and true to color. She spoke at our Camellia Society meeting when she was doing research on petal blight in the Los Angeles area and knows of what she speaks. This book is great for beginning hobbyists as well as long-time growers/exhibitors.

5.0 out of 5 stars An expert reference work and well illustrated, December 4, 2011

By 

Mr. M. Timberlake "Mike Timberlake" (West Sussex, U.K.) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Camellias: The Gardener's Encyclopedia (Hardcover)

For a lover of camellias this is essential reading. From history to showing, selection and growing and everything in between it's all in this book. Written by an acknowledged international expert the text appeals to the amateur enthusiast and the horticulturist. It is without doubt currently one of the best references available. The illustrations are good; the A4 size book is well bound and weighs 1.6kg. If you have to choose only one book on camellias this should be the one. An ideal gift for anyone serious about camellias. I would not be without my copy.