Alabama replaced goldenrod with Camellia japonica as the state flower in 1959. The change was due to goldenrod being considered a weed. Camellia japonica was chosen again in 1999 to differentiate from other varieties. The plant blooms in late winter and early spring, has glossy dark green leaves, and can reach 20 feet when mature. Camellias prefer moist, acidic soil and partial shade. They are slow growers and can be propagated through cuttings. In Korea, camellias symbolize fidelity and long life.
Alabama officials adopted Camellia japonica as the state flower in 1959 to replace the goldenrod as the state symbol. The change came after state gardeners asked lawmakers to change Alabama’s state flower, because goldenrod is considered a weed. Schoolchildren suggested goldenrod as the state flower in 1927 because it grew wild throughout the region. Lawmakers also adopted the oakleaf hydrangea as the state wildflower at the same time the camellia was designated as the state flower of Alabama.
Lawmakers took another turn on Alabama’s state flower in 1999 when they selected Camellia japonica to differentiate the symbol from more than 3,000 varieties of the plant. This species is native to Asia but grows well in the southern United States. Camellias in red, pink and white are common landscaping choices that add color to patios and public areas.
These plants are prized as the state flower of Alabama because they begin blooming in late winter and early spring before other plants flower. A dark red variety typically flowers first, with an abundant number of flowers on each plant. The species is considered hardy, but the flowers should be protected from frost during the winter months. Mulch should be placed at the base of the shrub to protect the roots from the cold.
The camellias were named to honor the German botanist George Kamel. This botanist became famous for his published work on oriental plants in the 1700s. As a Jesuit missionary, Kamel traveled to the Philippines, but historians believe he never studied the camellia in Japan or China, where the plant was discovered for its first time.
The state flower of Alabama produces flowers up to 5 inches (12.7 cm) wide. Each flower contains a yellow center and appears similar to a rose with overlapping petals. The glossy, dark green leaves make it a decorative plant all year round. Camellias are slow growers but can reach 20 feet (6.1 m) when mature.
Camellias prefer moist, acidic soil, but will adapt to less favorable soil conditions. They thrive in partial shade and make attractive flowering plants under large trees in filtered sunlight. In colder regions, more sun is needed for camellias to bloom. Too much sun or strong winds cause the petals to turn brown.
The Alabama state flower can be propagated through cuttings started in rooting compound. Plants should be pruned after all blooms fade in spring. These plants provide attractive borders around yards when planted as hedges. Alabama residents enjoy these flowers near patios, porches, and other outdoor living areas.
In Korea, camellias are a favorite wedding flower because they symbolize fidelity and long life. The red variety symbolizes dignity in some Asian cultures. White camellias are related to beauty.
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